ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Three new engines have joined the Albuquerque Fire Rescue team. The engines they’re replacing will be moved to the reserve fleet.
Engine 2, Engine 3, and Engine 7 are about 12 years old and have now been replaced by new engines. On April 30, there was a “push-in” ceremony for the latest additions.
“This is a well-deserved upgrade for one of America’s finest and most active fire departments, and a prudent investment in the safety of Albuquerque’s families,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “AFR continues to demonstrate excellence in their service to our community, and these new apparatus will help them continue carrying out that commitment.”
Funded by the 2021 General Obligation Bonds, the new vehicles cost around $636,182 per engine.
The department said the engines respond to about 2,600 to 3,500 for service every year. They also drive about 20,000 miles in that time.
“AFR is the largest fire department in the state and one of busiest in the country. To meet these demands for service, you have to have solid support from the Fire Chief on down,” said Randy Bloomer, AFR’s Fleet Services Manager. “AFR is committed to this service delivery by purchasing the best fire apparatus, maintaining the apparatus with a state-of-the-art, in-house Fleet Maintenance Facility utilizing Certified ASE/EVT Technicians, and replacing aging apparatus according to AFR’s replacement plan. All three working together allows AFR to provide the best service possible to the residents of Albuquerque.”
The updated engines might help improve service time and reduce costs for the department, they said.
