April 9, 2025

North Myrtle Beach Fire Department Introduces Engine 5 Amid Contract Dispute

Northford Structural Connections (NSC)

Northford Structural Connections (NSC) specializes in innovative engineering solutions for enhancing the safety and durability of precast concrete structures. Their patented products, including the Double-Tee Flexible Connection (DTFC) and Double-Tee Connection Pro (DTC Pro), address critical challenges like fatigue, corrosion, and seismic resilience. With a focus on quality and longevity, NSC provides advanced connection systems trusted by industry professionals for both retrofitting and new construction projects.

News Summary

The North Myrtle Beach Fire Department has welcomed Engine 5 to its fleet during a ceremonial push-in event. While the new engine enhances response capabilities, a contentious contract dispute over the construction of a new fire station looms. Concerns arise from a bid protest between construction firms regarding the legitimacy of a submitted bid, emphasizing the urgency for infrastructure improvements. As the department expands, community members hope for swift resolution to improve safety and readiness in the area.

North Myrtle Beach Fire Department Unveils Engine 5 Amidst Controversial Contract Dispute

The North Myrtle Beach Fire Department is buzzing with excitement as it has recently welcomed Engine 5 into its fleet during a special ceremony, but all is not smooth sailing in the world of city infrastructure, particularly concerning the construction of a new fire station. A bid protest hearing took place at City Hall on Tuesday, bringing forth tensions surrounding the fire station project.

Engine 5: A New Addition

Engine 5, which cost over $800,000, is currently stationed at Fire Station No. 5 located in the Barefoot Resort community. This new engine replaces an older ladder truck and promises to enhance the response capabilities of the fire department. In a somber yet historic ritual, Engine 5 was honored through a time-honored push-in ceremony, where firefighters manually push the new engine into the station—a tradition that pays homage to the department’s cherished history.

The arrival of Engine 5 is significant, not just as a sleek and modern firefighting vehicle, but also due to its versatile capabilities. It is specially outfitted to respond to both fire emergencies and medical calls, ensuring that the community receives round-the-clock support during urgent situations. Additionally, the new engine sports a custom-made mudflap representing the community, a personalized touch that reflects the pride residents feel in their local fire department.

Capacity Expansion

The North Myrtle Beach Fire Department’s fleet has grown with the addition of Engine 5, now comprising five engines, one ladder, one spare engine, and one spare ladder. The increase in apparatus allows for a better management of operational needs and enhances the department’s readiness, particularly as the city continues to grow in population and demands. This step towards expansion complements the city’s plan to acquire up to eight additional apparatus over the next five years.

A New Fire Station on the Horizon

In parallel with Engine 5’s introduction, the city is poised for further development with plans for a new $10 million Fire Station 7 to be constructed in the Water Tower Road area. This prospect has stirred feelings of optimism among community members, who express relief knowing that emergency response times will improve, especially in the Barefoot area.

Contract Dispute Holding Up Progress

The North Myrtle Beach Purchasing Agent is currently reviewing the concerns raised and is expected to communicate findings by Friday, April 11, 2025. With a striking $144,000 difference between the two bids, the stakes are high, and the final determination on the bid protest will be published on the city’s website after the stated date. Community stakeholders are anxiously awaiting the outcome, hopeful for a swift resolution that does not further delay much-needed infrastructure improvements.

Looking Ahead

The North Myrtle Beach Fire Department is determined to enhance its resources and meet the ever-growing demands of the community. The arrival of Engine 5 marks a pivotal moment in the department’s commitment to safety and readiness, while the outcome of the contract dispute threatens to cast a shadow on future progress. Nevertheless, the excitement surrounding the new engine and the prospects for additional fire stations indicate a very active and dedicated approach to safeguarding the residents of North Myrtle Beach.