Fernie will be getting a brand new sanding truck for the upcoming winter season.
The city council approved the $120,603 bid from Freightliner in Cranbrook.
Within the 2012-2016 five year financial plan, the city had budgeted $150,000 for the purchase of a new truck to replace the 1997 sander unit, which is in need of major repairs.
“It was 15 years old and requires upgrades. This was the time to make the decision of do you replace it or do you spend more money on it,” said Dave Cockwell, director of operational services for the city of Fernie.
The new truck will be equipped with a 10-foot reversible belly plow, which will allow the city to sand and plow at the same time.
Freightliner’s bid outlined a three to six month time frame to build the truck.
“We are trying to get delivery in November,” said Cockwell.
If there are any delays in building the new truck, the city does have a second sander.
Bids were also received from Inland Kenworth for $129,603 and Glover Trucks International for $146,525.