Local dignitaries announced Monday that $500,000 has been secured to fix repairs on the Edward M. Cotter fireboat.
Assemblyman Sean Ryan, Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, Common Council Member Chris Scanlon and Jessie Fisher of Preservation Buffalo Niagara were all on hand to make the announcement.
The funding will include a total replacement of the ship's hull, replacement of the ship's propellers, repairs to the rudder, tail shafts and main engine, and the welding of approximately 800 rivets.
“These repairs will allow The Cotter to continue to serve our community both as an icebreaker, and an active fire engine for decades to come," said Assemblyman Sean Ryan.
The Cotter is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and acts as the primary icebreaker for Buffalo's waterways.