LOWER MERION — This week, officials from Narberth Ambulance held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to thank Lower Merion’s commissioners for their assistance in securing funds for a new ambulance.
According to officials from Narberth Ambulance, a new, fully equipped ambulance costs approximately $500,000.
“It’s my privilege to represent our organization and our board of directors in offering our profound gratitude for the generosity of the commissioners of the township,” said Michael Brafman, president of Narberth Ambulance. “The ambulance that’s sitting behind us with the bow on it represents one of the largest capital expenditures that we make as an organization.”
Brafman said they spend a lot of time scrutinizing their budgets to get the best vehicles on the roads.
“When you guys received the ARPA grant, I’m sure there were a great many needs in the community that you considered. We are very appreciative that you found merit in our organization and our cause,” Brafman said. “We’re excited to have this truck on the street. We’re excited to serve this community.”
Several Lower Merion Township Commissioners were on hand for the event, including Anthony Stevenson, Andy Gavrin, Louis Rossman, Scott Zelov and Gilda Kramer.
Narberth Ambulance serves Lower Merion, Narberth, Conshohocken, West Conshohocken, Haverford Township, Lansdowne and Ridley Township. Last year, they answered over 16,000 calls.
From left to right Lower Merion Commissioners Andy Gavrin and Scott Zelov; Michael Brafman, president of Narberth Ambulance shaking hands with Lower Merion Commissioner Louis Rossman; commissioners Anthony Stevenson and Gilda Kramer. To the right is John Mick, chief of operations for Narberth Ambulance. (Photo Richard Ilgenfritz MediaNews Group)
Brafman said new ambulances represent one of the largest capital expenses they make as an organization.
John Mick, chief of operations for Narberth Ambulance, said the money to purchase the new ambulance couldn’t have come at a better time.
“This is about $370,000 worth of effort just for the empty vehicle; put in the rest of the equipment, we have about $500,000 total, so it is one of our largest purchases, and we probably make one about every year or year and a quarter with a two and a half year wait to get one.
The new ambulance features safety harnesses in the back, allowing crews to be strapped in while still having the ability to work on a patient. There is also a new lift system for the stretchers, so the crews no longer have to lift patients.
Having begun in 1944, Narberth Ambulance celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2024.
For more information on Narberth Ambulance, please visit their website at www.narberthambulance.org.