The New York City Council is using $90,000 in discretionary funds to replace 269 street signs honoring first responders who died during the September 11, 2001, terror attacks. The new red or blue signs are intended to be installed before the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
City Council Speaker Julie Menin allocated the funds at the request of Councilman Phil Wong, who brought up the issue during a Council hearing in March. Wong noted that one of his constituents, the husband of late EMT Hilda Vannata, questioned the inconsistency of the existing signs. Vannata's wife, who died from a 9/11-related illness, was honored with a red street sign in 2024, while police officers who died in the line of duty, including those succumbing to related illnesses, have been honored with blue signs in recent years. Firefighters and EMTs have received red signs.
Wong's office initially approached the city Department of Transportation about replacing the older green signs, which were erected shortly after the attacks. However, after the DOT indicated it could not fund the replacements, Wong sought assistance from Menin and other Council members, including Councilman Oswald Feliz and Councilwoman Joann Ariola.
"This is exactly the kind of investment New Yorkers can get behind," Wong stated. "Honoring the brave men and women of the NYPD and FDNY who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11 with a commemorative street sign is a small gesture, but one that is absolutely worth the time, effort, and taxpayer dollars."
Menin added, "Ahead of the 25th anniversary, the Council is recognizing the heroes who lost their lives as a result of the tragic September 11th attacks." Feliz echoed this sentiment, saying, "Restoring the 9/11 fallen heroes signs reflects our longstanding gratitude and commitment to honor those who gave their lives in service to keep our city safe."
Of the 415 first responders who died as a result of the attacks, streets have been co-named after those who lived within New York City limits.