11.8.17 - Sen. Fred Akshar Announces Funding for New Ambulances in Norwich

(NORWICH, NY) On Wednesday, Senator Fred Akshar joined members of the Norwich Fire Department and Norwich Mayor Christine Carnrike to announce approximately $290,000 in State and Municipal Facilities Program (SAM) funding to purchase two new ambulances for the City of Norwich.

“We depend on our first responders to run toward danger while others are running away,” said Senator Akshar. “On behalf of a grateful community, I'd like to thank these selfless members of our community by doing what I can to help them better serve and protect the people of the 52nd Senate District."

The two ambulances were purchased this summer and have already been put into use, rotating into service to replace two older ambulances. Norwich Fire Department covers the City and Town of Norwich and the towns of Plymouth, North Norwich and Preston.

City of Norwich Mayor Christine Carnrike's Office said in a statement, “The City of Norwich is once again grateful for the commitment of Senator Akshar in securing funding for two ambulances for the City and surrounding community. The service provided by Norwich Fire Department personnel is enhanced with this updated equipment and the burden of funding the equipment by the City taxpayers was alleviated with the SAM grant funding. As the Mayor prepares for her second term, she is confident in a continued working relationship with Senator Akshar and is committed to working collaboratively for the betterment of the City within the 52nd District. Many thanks to Senator Akshar and his staff. “

City of Norwich Fire Chief and Paramedic Tracy L. Chawgo said, “We sincerely appreciate Senator Akshar's help in securing the funding for these new ambulances. They work great, they've been busy and they're a much needed addition to help provide emergency services to the people of the community. They've also saved the taxpayers a bundle.”

The grants were outlined in this year's New York State Budget and are administered through the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).