PORTLAND (AP) — The Portland Fire Department has received a $1.1 million grant to help staff a special hazards response team.

The grant will fund firefighter positions on the department’s Rescue 1 apparatus, which responds to confined space fires, hazardous material emergencies, and other special hazards. It is the second time the city has received the grant for these positions.

City Manager Mark Rees says the grant not only provides financial relief for the city, but also makes the city and its residents safer.

U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree said in announcing the grant Wednesday the grant helps the city meet staffing needs without further burdening taxpayers.