WARREN, RI -- The smallest town in the smallest county in the smallest state is getting a big upgrade to its fire and rescue facilities, thanks to U.S. Senator Jack Reed.

In an effort to enhance public safety and help the Warren Fire Department build a new, centrally-located, modernized fire and rescue station, Senator Reed, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, secured a $2 million federal earmark for the town in the fiscal year 2022 appropriations law.  The town has already set aside $1 million for the project.  The $3 million may be used for site acquisition, design, and construction.

The new fire and rescue station would serve as a headquarters for the Warren Fire and Rescue Department, as well as an Emergency Management Operations Center, backup dispatch center, regional training facility, and a place for residents to receive services such as vaccinations and COVID-19 testing.

Today, Senator Reed joined Warren Town Manager Kate Michaud, Fire Chief James Sousa, and others for an update on Warren’s plans to build the new fire and rescue station.

“This new facility will assist the critical work of Warren’s first responders and public safety officials, ensuring they have the capacity and capabilities needed to support Warren’s fire and rescue needs now and in the future,” said Senator Reed.  “I’m pleased to deliver this federal funding to enhance public safety and keep the town’s first responders efficient and service ready.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has served as a reminder of the importance of public health and the vital role of our first responders in providing essential services to the community.  With Senator Reed’s assistance, Warren Fire and Rescue will have the facility that they need to meet the challenges of the future,” said Warren Town Manager Kate Michaud.

“The Warren Fire Department has served the Town of Warren for 220 years; and it is steeped in a strong tradition of volunteerism and dedication.  This new Fire and Rescue Station will provide the Department with a modern facility that will enable us to continue to serve the residents of the Town of Warren for many years to come,” said Fire Chief James Sousa.

The Warren Fire Department has three paid employees and the remainder of the fire department are volunteers.

The Warren Town Council recently approved a feasibility study on a proposed site that could become the home of this new station, located near the intersection of Kickemuit and Serpentine Roads, behind the Bristol County Water Authority plant.

The feasibility study is part of a multi-step approval process and is being paid for with federal American Rescue Plan funds.