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Evanston firefighters recently unveiled their new Truck 23, a state-of-the-art Pierce tractor-drawn aerial ladder truck that has replaced an aging unit that had served the city for 23 years. The vehicle was officially dedicated at Fire Station 3, located at 1105 Central Street, and is expected to maintain fast response times of three to five minutes across the northern part of the city, above Church Street.
Fire Chief Greg Klaiber emphasized the importance of the new truck in supporting search and rescue operations during emergencies. He highlighted the well-organized equipment bays, which are designed to help firefighters quickly access the tools they need in any situation. The replacement was the result of careful planning that began 18 months ago, following a review of the old truck’s maintenance records. According to Klaiber, ladder trucks typically have a lifespan of around 20 years, and the decision to replace the old unit was made last August.
The ceremony included a symbolic blessing by Fire Chaplain David Jones, who anointed the St. Florian Cross on the truck’s cab with holy oil, honoring the patron saint of firefighters. This tradition adds a spiritual dimension to the official handover of the new equipment.
From the Chicago Tribune: The $1.1 million truck was put into service this week, but its arrival was the result of a long process. Fire Chief Klaiber worked closely with former fleet services manager Lonnie Jeschke—now retired—and other key personnel to assess the needs of the department and design the right vehicle. The new truck features a 100-foot aerial ladder and is designed to be maneuverable from both the front and back, making it ideal for navigating Evanston’s narrow and sometimes challenging streets, especially in winter conditions.
For the past month, firefighters have been preparing the truck for service, with Firefighter Michael Hasanov playing a key role in customizing the interior with tailored cabinets. “This is for the next generation of firefighters,†Klaiber said, underscoring the significance of the upgrade for the future of the department.
Thanks to Dan for sharing this update.