Petersburg allocates $10M from casino revenue for new high-tech Fire Department trucks
The Petersburg Fire Department will receive nearly $10 million in brand new fire trucks funded by revenue from the city’s new casino, according to the city.
While the new casino resort won't be open until 2027 (although a temporary casino will be up-and-running later this year), developer Cordish Gaming Group has already allocated a substantial amount of funds to the city’s coffers for various infrastructure projects and public services, including the much-needed purchase for the fire department .
The new high-tech trucks — part of an ongoing effort to modernize the city’s fire truck fleet — will include three engines and two ladder trucks equipped with technology meant to enhance firefighter safety.
The purchase marks the largest acquisition of new fire department equipment in over 30 years, according to a press release from the city, significantly bolstering the city’s emergency response capabilities.
The acquisition "emphasizes Petersburg’s dedication to improving public safety and supporting its first responders," the press release states, adding that the new trucks "will ensure the Department is equipped with the latest tools to address Petersburg's increasing demands."
Additional casino funds will also be used to build a new fire station near the casino at the southern end of Petersburg and relocate one of Petersburg’s oldest stations on Farmer Street, according to city officials.
The Petersburg Fire Department, which according to Chief Wayne Hoover is currently fully-staffed for the first time in years, plans to hire an additional 33 firefighters for the new station.
The city also plans to use revenue from the casino to acquire a fleet of cars for the police department and build a new elementary school.
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This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Casino revenue funds $10M in new trucks for Petersburg Fire Department
