New NHP/Eden Fire Truck
by AJ de Saint Phalle

On October 27, the North Hyde Park/Eden Fire Department took delivery of
a new fire engine at their facility on Route 100 in North Hyde Park. The
$144,000 vehicle features a push button automatic transmission and a
surprisingly powerful "straight six" engine geared for plenty of low-end
torque. It will replace existing Engine #2 and is expected to be in
service for the next 20 years. Assistant Chief Eric Aither stated, "It's
got a really smooth ride, even when fully loaded."
Voters in the towns of Hyde Park and Eden approved the joint purchase at
Town Meeting. Sixty-five thousand dollars were appropriated from each
municipal budget. The fire department raised the balance of funds
necessary to make the purchase. Old Engine #2 will be sold and the
proceeds used to complete outfitting and equipping the new vehicle. Old
Engine #2's original wooden ladder, still in perfect working order and
sporting a nicely aged patina, was kept and is now proudly strapped to
the side of the new vehicle