Roxboro, NC – The Roxboro Fire Department (RFD) has taken another major step toward enhancing public safety with the addition of a new 2025 Pierce Enforcer PUC fire engine, funded through a $500,000 loan from Piedmont Electric Cooperative’s revolving community loan fund. This fund is made possible by repaid loans from the USDA Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program, allowing Piedmont Electric to reinvest in projects that strengthen local communities.
The Roxboro Fire Department’s new fire engine (Pierce Enforcer PUC) is known for its advanced design, compact maneuverability and innovative pump system, making it ideal for Roxboro’s mix of rural roads and densely populated neighborhoods. “This engine represents a critical upgrade for our department,” said Chief Kenneth Torain of the Roxboro Fire Department. “Its reliability and advanced features will allow our firefighters to respond more effectively to emergencies, protect property and ultimately save lives. We are grateful for Piedmont Electric’s continued support in helping us keep Roxboro safe.” The fire engine is expected to improve response times, increase reliability and provide firefighters with the tools they need to better protect residents and property across its 400-square-mile service area.
Piedmont Electric has a long history of partnering with the Roxboro Fire Department to enhance emergency response capabilities. Over the past decade, the cooperative has facilitated multiple zero-interest loans for new fire trucks and equipment, including a 2,500-gallon pumper tanker in 2017, a new air and light truck in 2018 and another Pierce PUC fire truck in 2023. Each of these projects underscores the cooperative’s commitment to its guiding principle of concern for community.
“We are honored to once again support the Roxboro Fire Department with the purchase of this new Pierce Enforcer PUC engine,” said Jordan Overbee, General Manager of Piedmont Electric. “Our mission has always extended beyond providing electric service, we are here to help our communities thrive. By investing in critical public safety resources like this fire engine, we are helping to ensure that Roxboro remains a safe and place to live.”
Through the USDA REDLG program, Piedmont Electric has secured and reinvested millions of dollars in zero-interest loans to benefit local fire departments, emergency medical services, schools and other community projects across Person, Alamance, Caswell, Durham and Orange counties. As these loans are repaid, the funds go back into the revolving loan pool to be used for future projects that strengthen the communities Piedmont Electric serves.
