U.S. Department of Transportation officials announced Tuesday that Albany International Airport has been awarded a $690,590 grant to purchase a new firefighting vehicle. The DOT grant, which will be administered through the Federal Aviation Administration, will be used to help acquire a new 3,000-gallon-pumper truck.

U.S. Sens. Hillary Clinton and Charles Schumer issued a joint news release welcoming the money.

“Safety is a chief concern and a top priority at our nation’s airports, and this grant will help Albany International continue to provide a high level of safety to their passengers and employees.” Clinton said.

Schumer said the grant money is necessary to replace old equipment at the airport.

“This federal funding will go a long way in ensuring that the firefighters at Albany International have the best equipment, and that the airport remains a thriving center of activity and a hub for economic growth across the entire region,” he said.