The Medford City Council authorized the purchase of a custom-built $823,743 pumper truck, reports Mail Tribune.
The pumper will be able to deliver up to 1,500 gallons a minute if connected to a hydrant or tender, along with a 750-gallon tank.
The new pumper will offer new benefits to the fire department:
- Hoses will be placed lower on the rig to prevent minor injuries.
- A shorter wheelbase for more ability to maneuver around city streets.
The price of the fire truck will rise in September due to an increase of the cost of steel. So, the fire department and city plan to pay for the truck before that date.
Medford Fire-Rescue last bought a new pumper in 2015, at a cost of $731,200.
One of the reserve pumpers will be retired after 25 years of service when the new rig arrives, and one of the older frontline pumpers will be put in reserve.