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Coral Springs receives over 2.4 million federal grant to hire new firefighters and strengthen public safety

Coral Springs, Florida – The City of Coral Springs is celebrating a historic achievement as the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department (CSPFD) has been awarded the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant for the first time in the department’s history. The grant totals $2,483,447, a significant federal investment aimed at strengthening public safety and emergency response across the community.

“Securing the SAFER Grant not only enhances public safety, but also reduces the financial burden on our residents,” said City Manager Catherine Givens. “This multi-million-dollar award is the result of years of dedicated effort by city staff, and it reflects our commitment to smart, strategic investment in the future of Coral Springs.”

Administered by FEMA, the SAFER Grant is designed to support fire departments and volunteer firefighter organizations in increasing or maintaining the number of trained frontline firefighters. Its primary goal is to help departments meet staffing, response, and operational standards, ensuring that communities are prepared to respond effectively to emergencies. For Coral Springs, the funding will be spread across a three-year period, allowing the city to hire 12 new firefighters, significantly enhancing the capacity of CSPFD to respond to emergencies efficiently.

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The city will also contribute $1,543,765 in matching funds, demonstrating a strong local commitment to maintaining high levels of public safety and readiness. This combination of federal support and local investment underscores Coral Springs’ dedication to both fiscal responsibility and the well-being of its residents.

Beyond the SAFER Grant, the city has shown a strong track record in securing federal funding. In FY2025, Coral Springs successfully obtained nearly $7 million in grant funding, reflecting ongoing efforts to leverage external resources to improve city services while minimizing the financial impact on taxpayers. These grants are part of a broader strategy to advance Coral Springs’ vision as a premier community for residents to live, work, and raise families.

City officials emphasize that this latest grant will not only strengthen fire department operations but also enhance overall emergency preparedness. “The addition of 12 new firefighters means faster response times, increased capacity for emergencies, and greater safety for every resident in Coral Springs,” Givens added. “This is a tangible investment in our community’s safety today and into the future.”

The SAFER Grant award is expected to have an immediate impact on CSPFD operations. By increasing the number of trained frontline firefighters, the department can ensure that critical response times are maintained, particularly during peak periods or large-scale incidents. The funding also allows for continued professional development and training, keeping firefighters prepared for the diverse range of emergencies they may face.

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Residents of Coral Springs can expect to see the benefits of this grant in the form of enhanced emergency services, improved response readiness, and a strengthened safety network throughout the city. City officials encourage residents to recognize the significance of federal partnerships like the SAFER Grant in supporting local public safety efforts, while also acknowledging the city’s ongoing commitment to leveraging resources effectively for community benefit.

This historic award marks a new chapter for the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department, signaling a future of improved public safety infrastructure and a reinforced commitment to the residents the department serves. With this investment, Coral Springs continues to prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of its community while advancing its long-term vision of excellence in municipal services.

 

Alfred Duncan

Alfred Duncan is a senior editor at The South Florida Daily, where he oversees our coverage of politics, misinformation, health and economics. Alfred is a former reporter and editor for BuzzFeed News, National Geographic and USA Today.

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