MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) – Murfreesboro Fire‑Rescue (MFRD) is adding some serious muscle to its aerial operations. The department has placed an order for three Pierce Ascendant 107‑foot heavy‑duty aerial ladders—an investment aimed squarely at keeping pace with the city’s rapid growth, rising density and increasingly complex response environment. The order, secured through Siddons‑Martin Emergency Group, marks one of the largest single aerial purchases in department history.
Deputy Chief Jamie Bigelow said the decision comes at a time when Murfreesboro’s landscape is changing fast. More apartment complexes, tighter access roads and multi‑story construction have created new challenges for firefighters navigating narrow streets and congested neighborhoods. The Ascendant’s single‑rear‑axle design gives crews the maneuverability they need, while still delivering the 107‑foot reach required for taller structures. “We’re confident these apparatus will play a critical role in supporting our crews and protecting our city,” Bigelow said.
MFRD, established in 1902, now serves more than 172,000 residents across 11 stations with 242 uniformed personnel responding to roughly 25,000 calls each year. As a Class 1 ISO department—the highest rating possible—Murfreesboro Fire‑Rescue is recognized nationally for excellence in suppression capability, training, water supply, emergency communications and response performance. The new aerials are designed to reinforce that standard…