MASSENA — The Massena Rescue Squad has a new ambulance after taking delivery of its new, state-of-the-art, customized 2022 Lifeline Superliner 167 ambulance.

The new ambulance, which was built over the course of the last several months, is set to replace the aging 2008 ambulance that has been in constant need of repairs.

Officials say the new vehicle includes significant equipment and technology advancements “that will allow for quicker, more efficient response and care for those in need of medical attention.

“This new ambulance will give us another reliable vehicle to respond to our community's needs,” Massena Rescue Squad President Ben Miller said.

Village officials approved the purchase of the vehicle on Aug. 10, 2022, agreeing to bond for a portion of the expense to ensure the rescue squad would have the necessary resources to safeguard the community.

The Village of Massena took control of the rescue squad on Jan. 1, 2022 from the Town of Massena with the “intent and commitment to improve our community’s Emergency Services.”

Officials say this is the first significant piece of equipment the village has purchased for the rescue squad since taking over.

“We have and will continue to look for ways to improve not only our equipment but our ability to serve this community,” said Aaron Hardy, Village of Massena liaison to the rescue squad.

Village and rescue squad leadership say the relationship has proven fruitful, with many great conversations leading to positive changes and developments since the village took over.

“As we continue to build our relationship with the Village of Massena, I am excited to see the Village's willingness to work with us on obtaining new equipment. In addition to the ambulance, new cardiac monitors, CPR devices, and other equipment purchases have also been made,” Miller said.

“These are additional examples of the Village’s commitment to improving our community's Emergency Medical Services,” Hardy said.

According to Hardy, the rescue squad was dispatched to over 3,600 calls in 2022 and are on pace to match that total already in 2023.