CHATTANOOGA, Tenn — The Chattanooga Fire Department is expanding its reach in East Brainerd, adding more people and equipment to better protect one of the city’s fastest-growing areas.
Ladder 21 officially went into service Friday at Station 21 on East Brainerd Road, turning it into a two-company station. The addition gives firefighters more tools and personnel to respond to emergencies in nearby neighborhoods and businesses.
Earlier this month, City Council approved the department’s request to buy a new $1.8 million, 107-foot Smeal ladder truck for the station. Until that new truck arrives, crews will use a reserve ladder already in the department’s fleet.
Fifteen firefighters have been added to staff the new truck. Station 21 already operates an engine company and a water tanker.
Fire Chief Terry Knowles called the move a major step for the department…