FITCHBURG — In a vibrant display of community pride, the Fitchburg Housing Authority (FHA) unveiled four brand-new Ford trucks in their signature “Fitchburg Red” during a celebratory event at the Green Acres family housing community. This significant upgrade replaces the FHA’s aging fleet of three blue trucks, marking a pivotal moment in the Authority’s mission to enhance service delivery across its 518 housing units citywide.
The event, attended by FHA employees, local dignitaries including Mayor Sam Squailia, and community members, was more than just a fleet upgrade. It symbolized a milestone in the Authority’s ongoing efforts to improve services for Fitchburg’s families, seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities. FHA Executive Director Douglas M. Bushman, who has been at the helm since January 2019, reflected on the journey leading to this transformation.
A Vision Realized in “Fitchburg Red”
Douglas M. Bushman shared that one of his initial initiatives upon joining the FHA was to retire the blue maintenance uniforms in favor of new ones in Fitchburg Red and gray, colors representing a new era of pride and professionalism. “I also envisioned replacing the blue maintenance trucks with red ones, but more urgent priorities delayed that plan,” Bushman explained. “Now, after years of rebuilding, I am proud to share that FHA has not three, but four brand-new Ford trucks — all in Fitchburg Red.”
The choice of color was further inspired by a poignant statement from Fitchburg’s Director of Housing & Community Development & Planning, Maribel Cruz. Cruz, who was recently honored with the prestigious Thomas S. Green Public Service Award, expressed,
“Fitchburg Red runs through my veins; the city is my home, my heart, and the reason I do what I do.”
Bushman emphasized that Cruz’s words encapsulated the essence of the trucks’ color choice, symbolizing service, identity, and commitment to Fitchburg.
More Than Just Trucks: A Symbol of Dedication
Officials assert that the new fleet represents more than a logistical improvement; it is a visible emblem of dedication to the city and its people, reinforcing the Authority’s ongoing transformation. The FHA stands as the largest landlord in Fitchburg, providing housing and care for nearly 1,000 residents. The importance of having a modern, reliable vehicle fleet cannot be understated, as noted by Thomas Hughes, chair of the FHA Board of Commissioners.
“Many, many years of neglect with our fleet, unsafe to drive and unsafe to operate,” Hughes remarked. “But we see clearly that part of the vision is to address that at the highest level possible.”
Community and Financial Support
The new trucks were not funded by local property taxes but rather through the strategic efforts of the FHA’s financial team, including Executive Finance Manager Alicia Santucci and Executive Assistant Cam Davis. Their work ensured that the fleet upgrade could proceed without additional financial burden on the community.
Beth Walsh, Constituent Services Director speaking on behalf of Senator John Cronin, echoed the sentiment of progress, stating,
“This is our home, this is where we were, and this is where we are going.”
A Step in Fitchburg’s Renaissance
Mayor Sam Squailia encapsulated the broader significance of the event by noting, “I thought this was all about four red trucks, but this isn’t about four red trucks, this is just another step in the continued progress and renaissance of the Fitchburg Housing Authority.”
This development follows a series of strategic improvements initiated under Bushman’s leadership, aimed at revitalizing the FHA and enhancing its capacity to serve the community effectively. As Fitchburg continues to evolve, these new vehicles stand as a testament to the Authority’s resilience, pride, and commitment to progress.
Looking forward, the FHA plans to continue its efforts to improve infrastructure and services, ensuring that the needs of Fitchburg’s residents are met with efficiency and care. The new fleet is just one of many steps in this ongoing journey of transformation and dedication to the community.
