(ROUND ROCK, TEXAS)U.S. Congressman John R. Carter (TX-31) today announced that Killeen Fire Department has been awarded a $4.44 million Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant by the Department of Homeland Security.

“This is great for the city of Killeen and the broader Fort Hood community. As the home to the Great Place, one of the world’s largest and most deployed military installations, these funds will ensure the families of our brave soldiers are protected while they are deployed and that they return home to a safe and thriving community,” said Carter. “These funds will provide more jobs,  many of which could provide opportunities for our veterans who may be transitioning out of the military but want to stay in Central Texas.” 

SAFER grants provide funding directly to fire departments to help increase or maintain the number of trained, front line firefighters. Killeen’s SAFER grant award will fully fund salaries and benefits for 37 new fire positions for two years.

“Fire protection is an essential service for our residents, and this grant will allow us to continue to improve safety and response and extend our excellent fire suppression rating,” said Mayor Scott Cosper. “Once again, Congressman Carter’s efforts in Washington have brought significant federal funding to our community enhancing the level of service we are able to offer our residents.”

“This SAFER grant will provide needed funding to staff Fire Station #9, which will service southwestern Killeen and parts of Fort Hood,” said Fire Chief J.D. Gardner. “Receiving the funding now will allow us to begin training personnel so they will be ready for the new station’s opening in early 2017.”

Killeen Fire Department received a previous SAFER grant announced by Congressman Carter in 2006 which funded 18 new firefighter positions.

###