Hamilton County Public Safety Center
Hamilton County’s new Public Safety Center will be approximately 107,310 gross square feet (GSF). The new primary areas include: 911 Dispatch with 42 consoles, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) with seating for 120 people, Public Lobby/Security Checkpoint, Training Rooms, 911 Administration, Emergency Management Agency (EMA), EMA Warehouse/Storage, County IT/Radio, Wellness/Fitness Room, and County GIS.
Designing spaces that promote staff well-being is crucial, especially in high-stress environments like Public Safety Centers. The following are strategies and amenities that we enhanced for the Hamilton County Public Safety Center respecting mental and physical health:
Natural Light: Incorporated windows to maximize natural light exposure. Sunlight positively impacts mood and circadian rhythms.
Fresh Air Ventilation: Improved air quality contributes to overall well-being. Enhanced ventilation systems to provide fresh, clean air.
Reduced Glare: provided sunscreens and deep window jambs to reduce glare, reduce eye strain, and promote comfort.
Acoustic Treatment: created quiet spaces with sound-absorbing materials helped reduce noise levels, which alleviates stress.
Views and Greenery: Provide outdoor views of woods and greenery that will boost morale.
Adjustable Furniture: Provided ergonomic sit-stand desks allow staff to switch between sitting and standing, promoting movement throughout the day
We also provided features including lighted walking trails, reflecting ponds, outdoor seating areas, secured parking, sleeping rooms, lactation rooms, various break rooms, wellness and fitness rooms, phototherapy lighting, and furniture specifically designed for a 24/7 operation.
The hardened area of the facility is an essential facility designed to withstand an EF-5 tornado with wind speeds of 250 MPH, as well as seismic design to withstand applicable earthquakes. A lobby space will provide a security checkpoint before entering the building and access to the elevator. The EOC and 911 Dispatch will be column-free open spaces. The new building will utilize quality and durable finish materials due to the building’s long-term life expectancy. Administrative areas will utilize finished materials consistent with a corporate office space.
