HAMBLEN COUNTY, Tenn. — Hamblen County is getting a state grant to buy a new fire engine, according to a release from state lawmakers.
The $420,000 grant comes from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, which approved a total of $36.6 million in grants for 78 communities across the state. The new fire engine will be for the South Hamblen Volunteer Fire Department, according to the release.
It said the fire department's current engine does not have some modern safety features, and by buying a new one firefighters will be safer while responding to calls.
“Firefighters are selfless and do essential work, and this grant is going to make them safer. I’m grateful to all the folks involved in applying for these funds and I thank TNECD for selecting this project," said Rep. Rick Elridge (R-Morristown) in the release.