06/19/2026
The City of Rockford is pleased to announce the purchase of a "new-to-us" aerial fire truck that will enhance emergency response capabilities and replace the City's current ladder truck, which has faithfully served the community since 1987.
The newly acquired vehicle is a 2001 Ferrara 100-foot aerial platform truck equipped with a 2,000-gallon-per-minute pump, a 300-gallon water tank, and more than 120 feet of ground ladders. The truck seats six firefighters and has fewer than 32,000 miles and 3,200 hours of operation.
"Having worked with similar aerial trucks during my time with the City of Grand Rapids, I am familiar with the design, capabilities, and performance of this style of apparatus," said Fire Chief Ron Tennant. "That experience gives me confidence that this truck will serve our community well. While a 100-foot aerial truck may seem large for a community our size, it's better to have the capability available and not need it than to need it and not have it during an emergency."
Prior to the purchase, City staff had the opportunity to evaluate the truck's operation, maneuverability, and compatibility with local infrastructure. The truck was also tested at one of the City's commercial buildings to ensure it would meet Rockford's emergency response needs.
The aerial platform will replace Ladder 41, a 1987 Ford/Quality/Readi-Tower 55-foot aerial truck that has served the Rockford community for nearly four decades. Although Ladder 41 continues to pass its annual operational testing, its age has made replacement parts increasingly difficult to obtain, and the truck no longer provides the reach and capabilities needed to serve a growing and evolving community.
Purchasing a quality used apparatus allows the City to significantly enhance its firefighting capabilities while being mindful of taxpayer dollars. Even after accounting for necessary repairs, maintenance, and upgrades, including tire replacement, the City estimates that purchasing this well-maintained used aerial truck saved taxpayers more than $1.5 million compared to purchasing a comparable new apparatus. This approach allows the City to improve emergency response capabilities while continuing its commitment to responsible financial stewardship.
Before the truck can be placed into service, firefighters will complete extensive training on both vehicle operation and aerial platform use. The City anticipates the truck will enter service in the coming months.
Once the replacement truck is fully operational, City officials will evaluate options for the future of Ladder 41.
The City looks forward to hosting a formal "Placing in Service" ceremony later this year to celebrate the addition of this important public safety asset and recognize the continued commitment of Rockford's firefighters to protecting the community.
