FDNY Breaks Ground on New EMS Station

The FDNY prepared for a new beginning on Dec. 2, as ground was broken for the new EMS Station 50 and Division 4 in Queens.

“For many years, paramedics and EMTs at Station 50 have gone out to make a difference in the community they serve,” Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano said. “This ground breaking is the latest great chapter in the tradition here.”

Station 50, also known as Hillcrest Station, is the largest EMS station in Queens, with 100 paramedics and EMTs working out of the facility.

“We’re proud to be a part of this,” Department of Design and Construction Commissioner David Burney added. “We know it will help you be the best you can be.

Plans for the new $19-million, 13,000-square-foot station include training facilities, storage and decontamination areas. It also will house large EMS response vehicles. It is set to open in December 2015.

Ambulance services have been available at Queens Hospital Center since 1939. The EMS Training Academy also was located at the site from 1978 to 1986, before moving to Fort Totten.

“This is going to be the jewel of the Bureau of EMS,” Chief of EMS Abdo Nahmod said. “We can’t wait to move in.”