Lexington Fire Department returns refurbished Ladder 6 to service, preserving tradition and saving time

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — The Lexington Fire Department proudly placed Ladder 6 back into service Thursday, unveiling a fully refurbished fire truck that blends history with modern readiness.

The truck, originally built in 2003, underwent a complete restoration. Assistant Chief Joey Harris says every component was examined and replaced if worn, making the truck feel brand new despite its age.

“This was torn down completely to the framerails—every nut and bolt, all the suspension,” Harris said. “It’s a 2003, but it’s just like the day it arrived in 2003.”

This marks the fifth new unit placed into service this year by the department. With many new trucks costing over $2 million and taking up to three years to build, Ladder 6’s $1 million refurbishment saved the city both time and money.

The department honored tradition during the ceremony, as firefighters and Mayor Linda Gorton took part in a symbolic push of the truck into the station. It’s a nod to the era of horse-drawn engines, when crews would manually push equipment back into the firehouse.

“We’ve had to change with the times, but we’ve held on to traditions where we can,” Harris said.

Lt. Joe Nugent, who will serve on the Ladder 6 crew, said the team is especially happy to have air conditioning—something especially appreciated during the current heat wave.

Nugent added that Ladder 6 is expected to be one of the busiest trucks in the city.