Waco, TX – The Waco Fire Department is adding two new vehicles to its fleet as the city continues replacing aging equipment and investing in emergency response capabilities.
A new tiller truck and heavy rescue truck were displayed outside Waco City Hall on Tuesday ahead of a City Council meeting, giving city officials and the public a look at the department’s newest equipment.
The tiller is a specialized ladder truck designed to improve maneuverability in areas where a large fire apparatus can have difficulty navigating. Unlike a standard ladder truck, the tiller has a second driver who operates the rear wheels, allowing the vehicle to make tighter turns and navigate narrower streets.
The new heavy rescue truck also expands the department’s emergency response capabilities. The $1.5 million vehicle was approved by the Waco City Council in December 2023.
The tiller truck was approved in March 2025 as part of a $3.6 million purchase that also included a new pumper engine.
The additions are part of Waco Fire’s broader fleet replacement program. Since 2021, the department has followed a progressive schedule aimed at replacing aging vehicles and maintaining reliable equipment for emergency responses.
According to the city, the replacement effort has resulted in the purchase of 15 new fire trucks over the past five years.
City officials said the latest additions reflect Waco’s continued investment in modern equipment and the department’s ability to respond to emergencies throughout the community.
The new vehicles were placed on display as city leaders highlighted the equipment and the city’s ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade its fire fleet.
