Pam Johnson and Kristen Zadroga-Hart, members of the “Our City, Our Choice” slate that are running for city council with Jersey City mayoral candidate Commissioner Bill O’Dea, released the following statement regarding today’s fire on Pacific Avenue, which damaged three businesses and some residential units.
“Today, our neighbors on Pacific Avenue endured devastating losses from a massive fire, with damages still being assessed. While we’re grateful no one was physically injured, the destruction of businesses and homes is nothing short of heartbreaking—and infuriating.
This tragedy highlights the reckless decision to ignore the repairs needed to make the Halladay Street firehouse, Engine 10 Ladder 12, operational. This is a critical lifeline for this community. If the firehouse around the corner had been safe for firefighters to occupy, this fire would never have escalated to such catastrophic levels. Decisions like these are a direct disservice to our community, and we demand accountability.
Bill O’Dea has been a vocal advocate for the people and has condemned the closing of this firehouse just as we have done in the past. We reiterate those sentiments today as we watch our neighbors lose everything they have worked so hard to attain and we are holding this city’s leadership accountable for this tragedy.
The recent fire on Pacific Avenue has once again highlighted the urgent need for improved fire safety measures in our community. The closure of the local firehouse on Halladay Street due to deplorable conditions and needed repairs is unacceptable and puts residents at risk.
Team O'Dea is calling on the city's administration to act swiftly and decisively to address these critical issues before another tragedy occurs. The safety and well-being of our residents must be the top priority, and we urge immediate action to ensure that our fire department has the resources and facilities needed to protect our community.”
Details about the fire are still emerging. This is a developing story.