Galveston County Emergency Services District #2 Purchases a New Fire Truck for Crystal Beach VFD
The residents of Crystal Beach can rest a little easier knowing that their local fire department has just received a major upgrade. Last week, the Galveston County Emergency Services District #2 (GCESD #2) proudly delivered a brand-new pumper tanker fire truck to the Crystal Beach Volunteer Fire Department (CB VFD). This state-of-the-art apparatus is not just any fire truck—it’s a top-of-the-line vehicle designed to meet the community’s growing needs and ensure safety in the face of major incidents.

The new pumper tanker, built by Pierce Manufacturing in Bradenton, Florida, boasts an impressive 1,600-gallon water capacity. This feature alone makes it a critical asset for fighting both residential and commercial structure fires, where large volumes of water are often required. The truck’s advanced design and capabilities will significantly enhance the CB VFD’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies.

(L to R) GCESD#2 Commissioners Tim Byrom, Greg Fountain, Kate Newberry, Tim Hardy, and Cecil Clay, GCESD#2 District Manager Doug Saunders, and CB VFD Fire Chief Gunner Newberry

This $400,000 investment, funded by taxpayers, is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s a long-term commitment to the safety and well-being of the Crystal Beach community. With a projected lifespan of 15 to 20 years, this new truck will serve as a reliable workhorse for the department, ensuring that the CB VFD can continue to provide top-tier emergency services for years to come.

The new pumper tanker replaces an aging fire truck that has served the community for over two decades. While the old truck has undoubtedly seen its fair share of action, it was time for an upgrade. The new vehicle’s advanced technology and greater water capacity represent a significant improvement, allowing the CB VFD to tackle more complex and challenging fires with greater efficiency and safety.

The addition of this new pumper tanker is just the latest in a series of strategic investments in the CB VFD’s fleet. The department also maintains a backup pumper tanker truck, as well as primary and reserve brush trucks, all of which are essential for handling the varied emergencies that can arise in the Crystal Beach area. Whether responding to a structure fire, a brush fire, or any other emergency, the CB VFD is well-equipped to protect the community.

The purchase of this new fire truck is a clear demonstration of GCESD #2’s ongoing commitment to the safety and security of Bolivar residents. By investing in the latest firefighting technology, the district is ensuring that the CB VFD has the tools and resources it needs to respond quickly and effectively to any emergency.

As the CB VFD continues to serve and protect, residents can take comfort in knowing that their emergency services are among the best-equipped in the region. The new pumper tanker is more than just a fire truck—it’s a symbol of the community’s resilience and a vital tool in the ongoing effort to keep residents and visitors safe.