Pierce Manufacturing has confirmed that the Columbus Division of Fire in Ohio has ordered two Pierce Ascendant 107ft Heavy Duty Tiller Aerial Ladders and two Pierce Enforcer Pumpers.
The purchase, placed through Atlantic Emergency Solutions, underlines the department’s intention to maintain a dependable, standardised fleet capable of supporting one of the busiest urban fire and rescue operations in the United States.
The Columbus Division of Fire runs 34 fire stations and protects a population of nearly 906,000 across more than 220 square miles. Its workforce of about 1,700 uniformed personnel, supported by civilian staff, delivers both fire protection and emergency medical services in an environment where demand is consistently high and call volumes place heavy pressure on fleet performance.
Dave Reichman, regional vice president of sales for Atlantic Emergency Solutions, said: “Reliability and operational consistency are critical for a department of Columbus’ size. The new apparatus are designed to perform under pressure, with features directly supporting firefighters’ safety and efficiency on scene. The Ascendant Tillers and Enforcer Pumpers will provide the visibility, manoeuvrability, and functionality needed to serve Columbus residents effectively.”
Columbus has operated exclusively with Pierce tillers since 2012, each unit built to exact local specifications. The latest order continues that approach, with customisation and fleet continuity identified as priorities. The Enforcer Pumpers were selected for their proven build quality and for the additional benefit of rapid delivery through Pierce’s Build My Pierce programme, which offers pre-engineered configurations that cut lead times and control costs.
The Ascendant tillers for Columbus will be supplied on Enforcer custom chassis fitted with Cummins X12 engines. Each unit incorporates a TAK 4 tiller axle, tandem rear axles for greater stability and braking performance, and a steel ladder capable of 107ft of vertical reach. Trailer compartmentation has been developed specifically for the department, and a wireless remote aerial control system provides further operational flexibility.
The Enforcer Pumpers will be built on Enforcer chassis with Cummins L9 engines and TAK 4 independent front suspension. Each pumper includes a 1,500 gallon per minute pump, a 750 gallon water tank, and a 152-inch body featuring extensive compartmentation and a low hose bed to improve ergonomics and appliance handling.
Reichman added: “The apparatus are designed to meet the demands of a large metropolitan city with a very high call volume. The tillers provide fast aerial setup, quick control movement, and superb visibility, while the pumpers feature thoughtful compartmentation and low hosebeds to maximise efficiency. We appreciate the opportunity to continue supporting the department with apparatus engineered for reliability, safety, and operational excellence.”
