Watervliet ambulances now go to Green Island, too

Nov. 17--GREEN ISLAND -- Ambulances from the Watervliet Fire Department will now rush to the aide of any of the 2,600 residents of Green Island.

The two communities announced a shared ambulance pact Thursday, which will allow Watervliet emergency medical personnel to respond to 911 calls in the neighboring riverside village.

"This is great for the quality of life and public safety of both of our communities," said Green Island mayor Ellen McNulty-Ryan. "Our departments already train together and know each other. This is a great opportunity for the enhancement of our services and for the EMTs to expand their training."

Green Island, a coterminous town and village off the banks of the Hudson River, had previously used the independent Empire Ambulance Service.

McNulty-Ryan and Watervliet Mayor Michael Manning both said the service will not come at any additional cost to taxpayers. Insurance companies for those who require the emergency services will be billed, the Watervliet Fire Department said.

"This is a budget neutral item for us," McNulty-Ryan said.

Watervliet and Green Island have previously worked together to save money and provide services. An aerial ladder truck they jointly purchased is housed at the Watervliet Fire Department and emblazoned with both communities' names. The two communities run a joint bus service, too.

The Watervliet Fire Department has responded to 2,500 calls since its ambulance service began in 2009. A "Servicing Green Island" decal has been splashed above the driver's side wheelbase on each of the department's ambulances.

Copyright 2011 - Times Union, Albany, N.Y.