Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse will announce the closing of one of the city’s oldest fire stations at a press conference Friday afternoon, officials claim it’s for budget purposes.
Fire Chief, Brian Enterline, says this fire station is the oldest active fire station in the city and it’s in need of some major repairs – which is one of the reasons why its being shutdown.
Enterline says officials have studied maps of response times and call volumes from station 6 and came to the conclusion that it could be closed without serious issues for fire safety.
In a news release, Mayor Papenfuse, states that he believes the city will meet its budgetary responsibilities without risking public safety.
This announcement comes as the city welcomes 13 new fire recruits who will significantly strengthen the manpower of the fire department.
Right now the recruits are going through 14 weeks of training to prepare for the rigors of fire-fighting.
The closure of this fire station does not involve layoffs.
But, Chief Enterline adds it will consolidate resources.
Apparatus from station 6 will be put in reserve status and water rescue assets will be moved to station 2 and City Island.
Stay with FOX43 for the latest details.
