Greenville New Bern Washington, NC, October 1, 2026 —

The Williamston Fire Department has welcomed a new 100-foot aerial ladder truck into its fleet, a significant enhancement aimed at bolstering the department’s emergency response capabilities. This acquisition was made possible through a substantial $1 million grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development program.

The new aerial ladder truck is designed to provide greater reach and versatility in emergency situations. Such equipment is crucial for firefighting operations, particularly in reaching upper floors of buildings and for providing elevated vantage points during rescues or to direct water streams. The addition of this truck represents a considerable upgrade to the department’s operational capacity and safety measures for both firefighters and the community it serves.

Funding for the new apparatus came from a $1 million grant specifically designated for rural development initiatives. The USDA Rural Development program supports projects that improve infrastructure and essential services in rural areas across the country. Receiving this grant indicates a recognition of the critical needs of the Williamston Fire Department and its commitment to serving the public.

The acquisition of this advanced piece of equipment is expected to significantly enhance the department’s ability to respond effectively to a wider range of emergencies, including structural fires and complex rescue operations. This investment underscores the importance of modern firefighting technology in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Williamston and surrounding areas.

The specific make and model of the truck, as well as the timeline for its full deployment and integration into active service, were not detailed in the provided information. However, the department has stated the primary goal of this acquisition is to improve overall emergency response performance.


Story summarized from the original created by WITN Web Team on www.witn.com, see more information here.

Media gallery

About The Author