Scott County completed a feasibility study for the recent consolidation of a facility containing all of the public safety answering points (PSAPs) within the county. The study focused on constructing a new facility that established criteria for appropriate redundancy and hardening.
The new Scott Emergency Communications Center (SECC) design uniquely combines an Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and a 911 center. A flexible training space with dispatch stations opens onto both the 911 center floor and the EMA situation room for maximum use during emergencies. This 24-hour communications center is one of the first LEED Gold-certified 911 centers in the nation with an emphasis on efficiency. By utilizing drought-resistant prairie grass landscaping, energy-efficient mechanical systems, and ground source heat pumps that keep air-handling units off the roof and away from the potential danger of suffering damage during storms, the SECC conserves energy and money alike. Easy-to-maintain systems and durable finishes support the ongoing nature of this 24/7 building while respecting the County's budget and needs.