Metuchen Gets $1 Million In Federal Funding For New Emergency Services Center

METUCHEN, NJ — A new emergency services center in Metuchen moved closer to reality after $1 million in federal funding secured by Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-N.J.) was included in a Department of Homeland Security funding bill passed by both chambers of Congress and sent to the president to be signed into law.

The funding will help replace Metuchen's current Office of Emergency Management facilities with a larger, modern center at 500 Main St. The new facility will feature advanced communications equipment, new training space, expanded storage for emergency supplies, a dedicated coordination space for emergency leaders and a call and dispatch center.

"Helping our communities prepare for emergencies is one of the most important responsibilities we have," Pallone said. "With this funding, Metuchen is one step closer to a modern Emergency Services Center equipped with the tools first responders need. This investment will strengthen coordination, improve response times, and give residents greater confidence that their community is prepared to respond to a crisis."

Mayor Jonathan Busch praised Pallone for seeing the project through the federal appropriations process.

"I'm grateful to Congressman Pallone and his staff for sticking with this through a difficult and often unpredictable process, and for continuing to deliver for Metuchen," Busch said. "This project is one of the most important investments we can make in public safety, bringing our fire department, EMS, and emergency management under one roof in a modern, purpose-built facility."

Pallone originally requested the funding as part of the fiscal year 2025 appropriations process.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com