Fergus Falls Public Safety Facilty

Fergus Falls, MN

The Fergus Falls Public Safety Department was co-located with the County Sheriff in County facilities. Growth of both law enforcement agencies, lead the City to look at other options for police headquarters. Beginning with a study of response time parameters, several sites were identified as potential locations for the department, including green sites and existing properties. After prioritization of the sites, and preliminary planning for the best sites, the planning team concluded that the optimal solution was to build a new facility on existing property that would create civic corridor between the existing City Hall and Historic Courthouse.

The building is constructed of masonry and stone to reflect the permanence of the facility itself while also respecting the history of the civic connection between two historic buildings. Connection to daylight and views was an integral part of the design for both private offices, shared spaces and rooms open for community gatherings. Interior materials are durable and timeless. Security procedures and building systems were studied and implemented. A geothermal heat pump system was installed. The building, designed with green principles, had project and construction costs totaling $3,500,000 and has achieved LEED Silver Certification.