Published on March 09, 2026
City of Gainesville leaders invite area neighbors to attend a dedication ceremony at Gainesville Fire Rescue (GFR) Station 8 for its newest ladder truck, Ladder 8.
When: 10 a.m. Thurs., March 12
Where: GFR Fire Station 8, 3223 NW 42nd Ave.
During the event, neighbors will have the opportunity to help GFR firefighters push the new truck into the station bay. The tradition dates to the era before motorized vehicles, when placing hand-drawn hose carts and horse-drawn steam engines into the firehouse required a hands-on approach.
The city’s newest fire engine is capable of carrying 500 gallons of water and is equipped with battery-powered extrication tools and a 100-foot aerial ladder. As an Advanced Life Support (ALS) truck, Ladder 8 is deployed with state-certified emergency medical technicians and paramedics.