FROM:
City Manager's Office
SUBJECT:
Title
Acceptance of World Trade Center Beam for First Responder Memorial
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RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council accept the donation of a 20-foot steel beam from the World Trade Center from the San Bernardino County Professional Firefighters Local 935, to be incorporated into the construction of the City of Fontana’s First Responder Memorial.
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COUNCIL GOALS:
• Increase citizen involvement by providing the community with information on development projects.
• Invest in the City’s infrastructure (streets, sewers, parks, etc.) by creating and promoting community through people, parks, and programs.
DISCUSSION:
In October 2011, the San Bernardino County Professional Firefighters Local 935 received a 20-foot steel beam from the World Trade Center. Since then, the beam has served as a traveling tribute to the first responders who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. It has appeared at events across San Bernardino County, honoring both the fallen heroes of 9/11 and local firefighters who have died in the line of duty.
Local 935 has now expressed its intent to permanently donate this significant artifact to the City of Fontana. The donation will support the City’s efforts to construct a First Responder Memorial that honors the bravery, sacrifice, and service of emergency personnel.
The beam will be a central feature in the City’s First Responders Memorial Monument Project, which will be located along Sierra Avenue in front of the existing Development Services Building within the Civic Center Campus.
While the monument will honor all those affected by the 9/11 tragedy, the Fontana memorial specifically emphasizes the heroism and dedication of First Responders within San Bernardino County, recognizing their daily commitment and sacrifice to the safety and well-being of the community.
Construction of the memorial is scheduled to begin at the end of June 2025, and this donation represents a major milestone in bringing this important project to fruition.
A letter from Local 935 President Jim Grigoli, dated May 30, 2025, confirming the intent to donate the beam and support its incorporation into a permanent monument, is attached for reference.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with accepting the beam donation.
MOTION:
Approve staff recommendation.