On Wednesday afternoon, July 8, the Big Rapids Fire Department welcomed a special guest to its headquarters.

Congressman John Moolenaar joined city and township officials to mark the station’s upcoming new fire engine. The new pumper-tanker truck, which is still being manufactured, was partially funded by $378,000 in federal money secured by Moolenaar.

“I appreciate people who go into danger and will risk their lives to serve and protect us,” Moolenaar said. “This is a good investment for taxpayers. I don't think anybody can ever question how important it is to protect our communities and safety, and I just want to honor those who are serving.”

The accepted bid for the new engine was just under $770,000. Arrival is expected sometime in the next year. It will replace the department’s current 1998 model.

Fire Chief Steve Schroeder said the new truck will be a major upgrade for the department.

“We’re continuing to grow,” Schroeder said. “We have a new fire contract with Big Rapids Charter Township, so we respond to a large area and population. We need to provide an apparatus to give better service for our rural community. This engine is expected to carry more water than our current engine does. Our current engine has 1,000 gallons on it, while the new engine will have 1,800.”

Mayor Fred Guenther also spoke to the crowd. Guenther, along with Schroeder, Moolenaar and recently promoted Fire Capt. Bethany Hamilton, took an honorary fire engine ride around downtown Big Rapids following the ceremony.

Big Rapids Fire and Rescue was one of seven groups to receive federal funding from Moolenaar. Other projects can be found here: https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/moolenaar-brings-funding-community-projects.