Metro Lex News

The Lexington Fire Department has introduced two new fire engines to its fleet in downtown Lexington. These engines, manufactured by Seagrave Fire Apparatus, each cost $846,445 and are equipped with Cummins L9 diesel engines, Capitol cabs, Waterous 1250 gallon-per-minute pumps, and a 750-gallon internal water tank. They will replace the older Engine 1 and Engine 5 models from 2004, which will now serve as reserve apparatus.

Mayor Gorton emphasized the importance of public safety as a priority for the city government. "Public safety is the most important service our city government provides, and it is my top priority. I take my job to make sure our firefighters are well trained, and well equipped, very seriously," she stated.

Fire Chief Jason Wells highlighted the challenges faced due to supply chain issues during the pandemic that have extended manufacturing times for new engines. "We are fortunate to be placing these new engines in service," he said. He credited Mayor Gorton and the City Council for prioritizing public safety: "These Engines are a testament to the high priority Mayor Gorton and our City Council place on Public Safety."

Assistant Chief Joey Harris also praised the collaboration involved in bringing these new engines into service. "Today is a celebration of the collaboration of Mayor Gorton and our City Council’s priority on Public Safety, our fleet technicians’ commitment to excellence, and our specifications committee time investment," he remarked. Harris expressed excitement about deploying these engines that will meet community needs for years to come.