We're excited to announce that @NorthwesternU has donated $800K to the City to fund the purchase of a new @EvanstonFD fire engine! Thanks, NU, for this wonderful investment in the #Evanston community https://t.co/BAzaHl069Npic.twitter.com/Kmq5g7mLmp

— City of Evanston (@CityofEvanston) December 20, 2021

The City of Evanston, Illinois, and the Evanston Fire Department recently received a donation from Northwestern University to purchase a new fire engine.

The university’s $800,000 donation will cover the cost of one 2022 Pierce Enforcer Pumper Truck, including the base cost of the fire engine and the emergency equipment used to outfit the vehicle, including hoses, tools, a cardiac monitor, self-contained breathing apparatuses, and radios. The Evanston City Council approved the purchase of the vehicle on Dec. 13.

This is the second time Northwestern University has donated funding to the city for a new fire engine. In 2009, the university donated $550,000 to the city for the purchase of one new pumper engine, which is still in service today.

“This donation couldn’t have come at a better time and helps address a critical need for our department,” said Fire Chief Paul Polep. “Not only will this new engine greatly enhance our ability to quickly and effectively respond to emergencies on campus and throughout the city, it will also support future investments in our emergency vehicle fleet.”