There is no set timeline for how long the construction will take. The work is being done by Nassau County-based Fratello Construction Corp., which has rebuilt FDNY firehouses in the past.

During the time the repairs are taking place, firefighters from Engine 293, and their equipment. will be based out of Engine 294 “for temporary quarters,” the FDNY spokesman said. Engine 294, which provides services to parts of Woodhaven and Richmond Hill, is located at 101-02 Jamaica Ave., roughly a four-minute drive from Engine 293.

Both firehouses were slated for closure under Mayor Bloomberg 10 years ago as part of his proposal for cost-cutting measures, but were saved after the communities expressed outrage at the idea.

The "new" truck is actually a demo model. Before being delivered the unit will be recertified. Going the demo route saved the city about $130,000 over buying a newly manufactured unit, Brown said.

The new truck will replace Truck 14, which will roll over to reserve status. Truck 14 is a 20-year-old aerial platform able to extend 95 feet. When the city bought the truck, it wasn't without controversy. There were questions among then city council members about the need for such a piece of equipment and the cost. In 1996 the truck cost $600,000. Replacing it now with a newer model would set the city back about $1.2 million, the chief said.