Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced $250,000 that he successfully secured in the state budget would now advance a town-wide project to replace outdated fire hydrant adapters across the eight fire districts in the town of Rotterdam. The project will move forward with the support of the local volunteer fire departments that serve residents of the town of Rotterdam.

Outdated fire hydrants force fire companies to use a number of converters, creating additional steps that require more time and effort during emergencies. The replacement adapters will be standardized to ensure that all fire departments are able to easily make connections to any of the town’s hydrants with a standard size fire hose. The streamlined process will save much-needed time, noted Santabarbara.

“This isn’t just a matter of convenience, but also one of safety,” said Santabarbara. “Every minute is precious when handling a fire, and saving time and effort for our firefighters can make all the difference and save lives.”

“These adapters will allow better access to the hydrants without the need for additional special adapters,” said First Assistant Chief Kevin Thomas. “All Town Departments, and outside Town mutual aid departments, can hook up to this connection more quickly and easily. We spoke to Assemblyman Santabarbara in regards to this need, and with his assistance we can now make this project a reality. This is a very important step in the ability of all Fire Departments to better serve and protect the residents of the Town of Rotterdam.”

Schenectady County Fire Coordinator Kyle Rudolphsen, Rotterdam department fire chiefs and volunteer firefighters, and fire district representatives all joined Assemblyman Santabarbara at Rotterdam Fire District No. 2 Fire Station to support for the project.