SACRAMENTO, Calif. (PSN)— The Sacramento Fire Department is preparing to place a new custom-built aerial apparatus into service, adding its first 100-foot mid-mount tower ladder to the department's fleet.
The new apparatus, recently highlighted by Pierce Manufacturing in a June 15 video presentation, is a custom-built Pierce Enforcer Ascendant 100-foot Mid-Mount Platform designed specifically to meet the operational needs of Sacramento firefighters.
During the video, Sacramento Fire Deputy Chief Derek Parker provided an overview of the new truck, emphasizing several innovative design features developed through collaboration between department personnel and the manufacturer.
One of the most notable features is the incorporation of TAK-4 T3 Tight Turning Technology, which includes independent rear steering designed to improve maneuverability in Sacramento's narrow streets, dense urban corridors and older neighborhoods where traditional aerial apparatus can face access challenges.
The truck also supports the department's clean cab concept, with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) cylinders stored in exterior body compartments rather than inside the crew cab. The design helps reduce firefighter exposure to potentially harmful contaminants carried back from emergency scenes.
Behind the crew cab, firefighters will find a transverse compartment equipped with a split slide-out tray accessible from either side of the apparatus, providing rapid access to commonly used tools and equipment.
The apparatus also incorporates a unique tribute to Sacramento Fire's culture and values. The phrase "Devotion to Duty" — one of the department's core values — is illuminated and integrated into the front grille design.
Apparatus Specifications
- Model: Pierce Enforcer Ascendant 100' Mid-Mount Platform
- Cab: 70-inch cab
- Seating Capacity: 5 personnel
- Overall Height: 11 feet, 3.5 inches
- Overall Length: 42 feet, 8 inches
- Front Suspension: TAK-4 Independent Front Suspension (24,000 lbs.)
- Rear Suspension: TAK-4 T3 Independent Rear Suspension (52,000 lbs.)
- Engine: Cummins X12
- Horsepower: 500 HP
- Torque: 1,700 lb-ft
- Gross Vehicle Weight: 76,000 lbs.
- Dealer: Golden State Fire Apparatus, Inc.
When Will It Enter Service?
Public Safety News reached out to Sacramento Fire Department Public Information Officer Capt. Justin Sylvia, if there was a timeline for the new apparatus entering frontline service.
"Not yet. We had crews training on it last week and then it was sent to Golden State for loose equipment mounting. I'd expect it to be in service in a month," Sylvia told PSN.
According to Sylvia, firefighters have already begun training on the apparatus. The truck is currently undergoing final outfitting before being placed into service.
Once operational, the new tower ladder is expected to enhance Sacramento Fire's aerial firefighting, rescue and access capabilities while providing improved maneuverability throughout the city's urban environment.