Mich. City Turns 15-Year-Old Dump Truck Into Safety Vehicle

A former City of Wyoming, Mich., dump truck has found new life as a crash attenuator vehicle for the city’s Fire Division. The refurbished attenuator, which would have cost $127,000 if purchased new, was built by fleet staff for less than half the cost, according to the city.

The crash attenuator is a safety device that reduces the damage to structures, vehicles, and motorists resulting from a motor vehicle collision. It is also designed to redirect vehicles away from hazards on the road. In the event of a crash or emergency situation on a roadway, the attenuator will be set up to protect the scene from passersby, thereby ensuring safety for public safety officials, emergency technicians, pedestrians, and victims. The vehicle will also be used by the Public Works Department staff while performing repairs on major streets, protecting both staff and equipment. This type of vehicle has not been a part of the city’s fleet in the past.

The crash attenuator truck was used as a dump truck by the city’s Public Works Department. For more than 15 years, the dump truck hauled debris, assisted in water and sewer emergencies, and plowed roads. When it became apparent that its usefulness was coming to an end, staff proposed the transition to a crash attenuator rather than sending the vehicle to auction. The city acquired a $20,000 grant from the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority (MMRMA) to help pay for the project.

Ted Seil, fleet supervisor for the City of Wyoming, led the project and oversaw the truck’s transformation. “Converting the dump truck into a new use was a unique project for the fleet services technicians. We’re pleased with the results and the cost-savings, and we’re happy to know our colleagues will be safe out on the road when responding to emergencies.”

Since the completion of the attenuator truck, it has been used six times.