Mayor Mark A. Smith announced that Bayonne will receive a $3.5 million federal grant to build a new fire station on a 1.8 acre plot just north of the temporary station on Port Terminal Boulevard, according to today's Jersey Journal.

"These firefighters have had to do their jobs in temporary quarters, which needless to say have been neither sustainable nor suitable to their needs or the city's desires," Sen. Robert Menendez said. "They responded to over a quarter of the city's fire runs in 2008 with dedication, courage and professionalism."

The $3.5 million grant is one of the largest fire station construction grants in the nation Sen. Frank Lautenberg said.

Michael T. Dempsey/Journal PhotoBayonne firefighters currently operate out of this tent.The temporary station consists of a large hanger-like tent that accommodates five trucks and eight on duty firefighters.

Fire Chief Gregory Rogers said operating out of a tent has put a strain on the firefighters, but he now sees "the light at the end of the tunnel."