New parking lot, exterior repairs will position Harrison's Hilltop Hose for the future

Upgrades to Hilltop Hose in Harrison won’t just boost safety, they’ll provide a station ready to house the next generation of firefighters, officials said.

Chief Jeff Balog said his department will spend about $157,000 this year to repave the parking lot and replace the siding and windows.

“We are located directly in the middle of a residential neighborhood, so both the parking lot and building exterior improvements will show our neighbors that we not only care about our property, but we take pride in our station and the work that we do,” Balog said.

Hilltop will get some help from the state to pay for the repairs. The fire company on Wednesday was awarded $50,000 through the Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund. Grants are administered through the Allegheny County Redevelopment Authority.

“Receiving this grant is extremely helpful to our organization, and the funding will mainly be put toward paving our parking lot,” Hilltop Secretary Mark Loya said.

That work is necessary because of safety hazards such as crumbling asphalt and water runoff, he said.

“While the grant only covers a portion of the total project’s expense, our membership is determined and will rely on fundraising and additional grants to cover the balance of the project,” Loya said.

In all, the repaving project will cost about $106,000; siding, windows, ceiling work and drywall are expected to cost about $51,000.

“Firefighters are putting their lives on the line for us, and it costs money to be able to do this critical work,” said state Rep. Mandy Steele, D-Fox Chapel. “Equipment, training and facilities are all very expensive. The parking lot was a safety hazard for the volunteers and community members who use the building.”

Founded in 1914, Hilltop provides fire suppression, rescue, quick response service and special operations.

There are about 50 members, 30 of whom are active. There also are a ladies auxiliary and a successful Junior Fire Company program for teens 16 to 18.

Balog is appreciative of the state help, especially because the volunteers are spread thin with multiple duties, he said.

“We spend a lot of time training, performing station duties, making sure our equipment and trucks are always ready for an emergency, and managing the business side of the company,” he said. “In addition to all the work, we must fundraise to bring money into the station to make it all happen.”

State Sen. Lindsey Williams said she will continue to advocate for more stable and ongoing funding for first responders so they don’t have to rely on inconsistent and complicated grant processes.

This is the second consecutive year that Hilltop has received state grants.

Last summer, the roof at the firehall was replaced with help from a $23,500 grant through the state Department of Community and Economic Development.

“Any financial assistance that we receive is beneficial to our department and greatly appreciated, and is ultimately given back to the community through our services,” Balog said. “Donations, fundraisers and grants allow us to focus on our mission, which is to save lives and protect property.”