Magaziner, Local Leaders Celebrate New Emergency Operations Center for the City of Warwick

WARWICK, R.I. - Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) joined Warwick Mayor Frank Picozzi, Chief Peter McMichael of the Warwick Fire Department, and first responders to celebrate the completion of a new state-of-the-art Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for the city of Warwick, which was made possible by a $530,437 grant he secured for the city in 2024.

The new EOC serves as a central hub for communications for the Warwick Fire Department and replaces an aging 70-year-old facility to improve response times and communications between first responders during emergencies for Warwick's nearly 83,000 residents.

You can view remarks from the event here.

"When Rhode Islanders are in danger, they deserve swift assistance, and seconds can mean the difference between life and death. This new operations center and upgraded equipment will improve response times and keep Warwick residents safe." said Magaziner. "I am proud to have delivered this funding to equip our first responders with the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively."

"Public safety is our top priority, which is one of the reasons Warwick was named the safest city in America. This new Emergency Operations Center represents a major investment in the safety and resilience of our community. Thanks to Congressman Magaziner's support, Warwick now has a modern, state-of-the-art facility that will strengthen coordination among our first responders, improve response times, and better protect our residents in times of crisis. This is a critical step forward in ensuring we are prepared for whatever challenges come our way," said Mayor Frank Picozzi.

"The City of Warwick is very appreciative for the support and hard work of Representative Seth Magaziner and his assistance in helping Warwick acquire $530,437 in federal grant money. We could not have relocated, updated, and improved our Fire and EMS Operations Center without these federal dollars. This project funding allows us to improve emergency management operations and facilitate improved communications and emergency response from a secure and sustainable location," said Chief Peter McMichael of the Warwick Fire Department.

The new facility is located in Potowomut Station #10 in Warwick and replaces an aging facility prone to leaks, flooding, and other issues. The new site also includes the security infrastructure to prevent disruptions from an act of terrorism or catastrophic weather event.

The new facility will house new radio systems, alarm systems for rapid response, communications software, and dispatch equipment.

Magaziner worked closely with the Warwick Fire Department and local leaders to secure the funding as part of the FY2024federal government funding legislation.