Akron has a new firefighting tool thanks to Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.
The company donated a 2005 Freightliner foam engine/pumper to the city Tuesday.
“We are ecstatic that we are getting this vehicle,” Fire Chief Edward Hiltbrand said, as the key was handed over to Mayor Dan Horrigan outside Goodyear’s worldwide headquarters in East Akron. “It’s in really good shape and has low mileage.”
The firetruck can handle 1,250 gallons of water per minute and weighs 31,440 pounds.
The chief estimated the value of the truck, foam and other equipment being donated at about $200,000.
Hiltbrand said the truck will replace either a 1993 rescue truck that the city can no longer get parts for or a 1995 foam truck that has mechanical problems.
Mike Peterson, Goodyear director of global investigations and security services, said the company didn’t need the vehicle anymore.
“We saw an opportunity to help the City of Akron out by donating the truck to them knowing that they will be able to utilize it,” he said.
The truck features Goodyear decals and tires. The city plans to leave the decals on the sides of the vehicle and Horrigan pledged that it will always have Goodyear tires.
Rick Armon can be reached at 330-996-3569 or rarmon@thebeaconjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter at @armonrickABJ.