Fitchburg is adding a brand-new ladder truck to its fire fleet, a much-needed replacement as the city’s older ladders and engines have faced costly breakdowns and repairs.

The new truck, designed with input from Fitchburg firefighters, features expanded compartment space, improved efficiency, and a straight stick aerial ladder that allows access to tighter areas than the bulkier tower ladders of the past. Fire officials say the addition will provide greater reliability, flexibility, and safety for both crews and residents.