The Santa Rosa Fire Department has rolled out a new fire engine and crew—the first expansion of its kind since 2007.
The Press Democrat reports the new unit, Engine 9, is stationed at Fire Station 1 and is funded by Measure H, the countywide sales tax passed last year. Fire Chief Scott Westrope said the expansion is vital, noting the department now responds to nearly 60% more calls than it did 18 years ago.
In addition to the engine, the department has added three new battalion chiefs.
While the new crew creates a tight squeeze at Station 1, the move is a major step toward better serving Santa Rosa’s growing population.