City and public safety officials gathered Thursday morning to officially open the new Lincoln Emergency Communications Center. It’s located inside LPD’s Northeast Team Station at 52nd and ‘R’ Street.
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird says the expanded facility improves the resources and work environment for local 911 dispatchers. “The new Center provides our 911 dispatchers with more space and upgraded technology to enhance public safety and deliver swift, successful emergency response for our growing community.”
The 51-member emergency communications center team of dispatchers and supervisors recently moved from its Hall of Justice location into the new facility. The expansion has capacity for 61 employees and allows the center to increase the number of communications consoles from 18 to 24.
A new class of seven dispatchers is expected to begin training in August and September. “For those suited for this stressful and challenging career, we want to provide a comfortable space that’s desirable for talented telecommunicators to call home professionally,” Police Chief Chief Morrow says.
The City purchased the building for $2.5 million, using $1.25 million in reappropriated LPD budget funds and $1.25 million in asset forfeiture funds. About $4.5 million in federal CARES Act funds were used to renovate the building.
Including another $2.3 million in reappropriated general and 911 communications funds, the total cost of the combined 911 Center/Northeast Station is nearly $8.1 million. Jessica Loos is the manager of the center and says the expansion ensures that their commitment to service excellence in Lincoln and Lancaster County remains unwavering.
“This space is more than walls and equipment. It is a testament to our commitment to progress and care,” Loos says. “It will help us retain our dedicated professions and attract tomorrow’s professions who will share our passion for serving others.”
Loos says the original 911 call center at the Hall of Justice will be used as a backup to the new center.