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Paterson, NJ - In this tough city, the new fire headquarters structure on McBride Avenue was built with federal funds secured by Congressman Bill Pascrell. On June 24th, the firehouse was re-named in his honor.

Pascrell is a life-long resident of the city and served as its mayor. He was also a history teacher. Pascrell has been in Washington, D.C. since 1997.

The congressman is a well known friend to the Fire Service. Pascrell authored and introduced the FIRE Act in 1998, authorizing federal support for the Fire Service to purchase equipment, provide training and hire personnel.

In 2000, his work led to the creation of the Assistance for Firefighters Grant Program and, three-years later, the SAFER Act, helping maintain safe staffing levels.

These projects have allocated more that $12.5 billion to local fire departments, including more than $29 million for Paterson.

Over 200 people assembled at fire headquarters for the ceremony. It was estimated that over 30 New Jersey fire chiefs joined in.

“No person has given more for Paterson than he has,” said Mayor Andre Sayegh.

Paterson Fire Chief Brian McDermott said that Pascrell cares not only about Paterson firefighters, but also for all those who courageously serve across the country.

“What's more important is the people that you don't see here today," McDermott continued. “There are many whose lives were saved because of the funding.”

Pascrell also serves on the Congressional Fire Services Caucus.

“I have always been in awe of our firefighters,” Pascrell said. “Their every day heroism is what inspired me to try and help fire departments in every community in our great nation.”