Tuesday, December 12, 2023  |   View in browser

Evanston Fire Department Thanks Northwestern for New Fire Truck Donation

Photo by: Shane Collins/Northwestern University

Evanston, IL – The Evanston Fire Department unveiled a brand-new Pierce Enforcer Pumper Truck, made possible by an $800,000 donation from Northwestern University in 2021. In a unique expression of gratitude, the fire department has incorporated Northwestern’s distinctive purple color and some graphic branding elements into the new engine design concept. 

This eye-catching fire engine, capable of holding 500 gallons of water and pumping 1,500 gallons per minute, is equipped with an array of fire gear and Advanced Life Support equipment. The significant upgrade replaces a 2003 truck, enhancing the department's capabilities in responding to various emergencies, including EMS calls, working fires, and specialized rescue incidents.

Northwestern’s long-standing support of the Evanston Fire Department dates back to 1970 with the University's first donation of a new fire engine. Over the years, this partnership has continued, with subsequent ambulance and fire engine donations, collaborative training sessions held in University facilities, and assistance from Northwestern's research and development department.

Photo by: Shane Collins/Northwestern University

A look at the project's timeline: 

• Mid-2021: Councilmember Clare Kelly, Mayor Daniel Biss, and Northwestern's Senior Executive Director for Neighborhood and Community Relations Dave Davis engaged in discussions regarding the Evanston Fire Department’s need for a new fire truck due to an aging fleet and increased usage of reserves.

• Late 2021: The City accepted an $800,000 donation from Northwestern for the purchase of the new fire truck, and the City Council approved the acquisition.

• January 2022: The City of Evanston placed an order with Pierce Manufacturing Company for the new fire engine.

• February 2022: Fire Chief Polep initiated discussions on a new engine design concept with members of the fire department and Northwestern's Office of Global Marketing and Communications.

• March 2022: Fire Chief Polep hosted a meeting with Station 3 fire captains to discuss design elements.

• April 2022: Based on conversations with the Station 3 crew, designs were revised.

• May 2023: Plans were finalized by Fire Chief Polep and a signed approval for production was presented to Pierce.

"Thank you to Northwestern University for this generous and needed gift to the City's fire department," said Councilmember Kelly. "I look forward to further engagement and collaboration between Northwestern and the City of Evanston. Building and strengthening mutual support benefits both Northwestern and the City. Uplifting the spirit of partnership invigorates a true and healthy community."

Echoing this sentiment, Fire Chief Polep emphasized, "This is our way of showing gratitude to Northwestern for the continuous collaboration between our fire department and the university over the years. Painting the truck in Northwestern colors is a symbolic gesture of our shared values and partnership in ensuring the safety and security of our community. We’re proud of how it turned out.”

“The University is immensely proud of our enduring partnership with the City of Evanston," said Dave Davis, Senior Executive Director for Neighborhood and Community Relations at Northwestern. "This new fire truck, adorned with Northwestern colors, is a testament to our collaborative spirit and shared commitment to ensuring the health and safety of our entire community. As we celebrate this milestone, I am filled with optimism about the future of our partnership."

The Evanston Fire Department looks forward to utilizing this new vehicle and equipment to enhance community safety, providing top-of-the-line services to the entire Evanston community. 

For more information, please call the Evanston Fire Department at 847-866-5935. 

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Media Relations: Jessie Mayo
jmayo@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-448-8041