Collaborating closely with the police department’s staff and administration to understand their needs related to workflow, function, and room adjacency, we worked together to select three conceptual designs. The final design incorporated several features to achieve the department’s objectives, including a tactical firing range in the basement for officer training. Additional emphasis was placed on safety and security, using crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) strategies, including landscaping elements like concrete benches instead of bollards to protect the building.

Engaging the community and municipal stakeholders was an important part of the process. A series of public work sessions allowed our team to gain an understanding of their needs, the neighborhood and site context, and existing architecture within the town, which were all important factors influencing the design. The finished police station includes a welcoming lobby and an open, flexible community room for gatherings. These spaces encourage public engagement and meaningful opportunities for communication and proactive problem-solving between members of the community and police staff. The site’s existing plaza was also redesigned to create a welcoming space for community activities, further reinforcing a sense of civic pride and partnership.