Pittsburgh will use Highmark Health donation to buy 13 new fire trucks

September 3, 2026 - 21:13

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire is set to replace a significant portion of its aging fleet, thanks to a large donation from Highmark Health. Mayor Corey O'Connor made the announcement on Thursday, revealing that the city will use the funds to purchase 13 new fire trucks. This move comes just over two months after the mayor took office and marks one of his first major public safety investments.

The new vehicles will replace some of the oldest and most unreliable trucks currently in service. Many of the existing rigs have been on the road for over two decades, leading to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs. Fire Chief Darryl Jones said the new trucks will improve response times and provide firefighters with safer, more modern equipment. The purchase is part of a broader effort to modernize the bureau's apparatus, which has been underfunded for years.

Highmark Health, which is headquartered in Pittsburgh, has a long history of supporting local community projects. The donation amount was not disclosed, but city officials say it covers the full cost of the trucks. The first deliveries are expected within the next year, with all 13 units in service by the end of 2026. The city is also exploring additional funding sources for future fleet replacements, including state grants and federal assistance programs.