Milton Fire Department is launching a capital campaign to help fund the purchase of a new 107-foot ladder truck.

The campaign, referred to as Reaching New Heights, would replace the department’s existing ladder truck that has been in service for more than 30 years. Deputy Chief Johnny Hopkins said the current truck has a lot of mechanical issues and has outlived its lifespan. The existing truck could reach heights of 75 feet, but the new one would be able to go to 107 feet, which Hopkins said is advantageous in fighting fires in developments where cars may be parked in the way.

“This is about making sure we can continue to protect lives at the highest level,” he said. “Our current equipment has served us well, but the needs of our community have outgrown its capabilities. In addition to improving emergency response, the new truck will provide advanced safety features for firefighters, reduce maintenance costs associated with aging equipment, and strengthen recruitment and training efforts within the department.”

The truck is custom made to the department’s specifications and will take nearly two years to build. Part of that build will be tailoring the truck for Milton, including adding rear steer to enable the truck to get down narrower streets like those in Cannery Village, a water pump, custom paint job and having the hoses, tools and safety gear on the same side as the department’s other trucks. 

So far, the department has raised $300,000 of the $2 million cost of the truck, but Hopkins and department President Bryan Reynolds said the department would like to do the project without taking on additional debt. The Milton department is a volunteer outfit, not a fully subsidized government entity. The department covers a 100-square-mile district that includes 17,000 residents and is growing.   

“This isn’t just about a truck; it’s about the future safety of our community,” Reynolds said. “Every dollar brings us closer to being fully equipped for the challenges ahead. ” 

For more information or to contribute to the Reaching New Heights campaign, go to Milton85.com.