"We're all very cognizant of 2020 and what that has in store," said Brian Pawlowski, acting executive director of community investment for the city. "In a case like this, we have a pretty manageable cost in terms of a new public safety building, so we think (TIF) makes sense."

This is just the second time in recent memory the city has used TIF dollars -- which typically pay for infrastructure to support private development -- to pay for a public building.

The Redevelopment Commission agreed to pay for the city animal shelter with TIF money under former Mayor Stephen Luecke in 2010.

It also has used TIF money to make bond payments on the main police and fire stations.

The architect for the project was Ted Galante, from The Galante Architecture Studio in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He thinks the city should be very proud that it was able to preserve at least some of the 1902 building.

"Reflecting and really stating that we've had some great years in Davenort, and at the same time building a new , modern facility, a forward-looking facility that says to the children of Davenport our best years are ahead of us."

A key feature of the "new" Central Station is drive through bays - fire trucks can now enter on 3rd Street and leave on 4th Street or Scott which will improve safety. It's also designed to shorten "turnout time," or how long it takes firefighters to get ready, get in their trucks, and leave.

Chief Charles Hood said the new building will have an immediate impact.

The fire station has seen an increase in calls in recent years, going from 11,287 in 2014 to just under 12,000 in 2015.

"We are so excited to celebrate the opening of Fire Station 32," Councilman Ron Nirenberg said. "Our top priority is always the safety and security of our residents and this new station will ensure improved services for our community members."

The firefighter was taken to the trauma center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton, where he was being treated late Monday. Bashir and Coltre said it appears he will make a full recovery.

Coltre said early reports are that Engine 9 was responding to a fire call in the West Ward while already on the road when the incident occurred.

He said Engine 9 operates a "closed cab" piece of apparatus, with doors that obviously should securely lock and it appears like a freak accident, Coltre said.

It was unknown if the firefighter was wearing a seatbelt at the time, officials said, saying the incident was under investigation.