Reimagining Public Safety: A Modern Facility Designed for Community Protection

PARTNERS in Architecture collaborated with the City of Grosse Pointe to deliver the new Department of Public Safety Headquarters through a Design-Build process with a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP). This project involved a comprehensive evaluation of existing building conditions and an assessment of multiple potential sites for the new station. Each site presented unique challenges, particularly in accommodating the navigation and maneuvering requirements for large emergency vehicles, as well as ensuring efficient access and exit points.

Ultimately, PARTNERS configured a .55-acre site to house a 17,500-square-foot facility that includes a three-lane pull-through apparatus bay, a three-level training tower, and on-site parking for 23 vehicles. The compact site design required innovative solutions to maximize functionality and efficiency within the constrained footprint. The training tower provides a dedicated space for essential firefighter drills and skills development, while the apparatus bay supports rapid deployment and seamless operations for the department’s emergency response teams.

The new headquarters balances operational needs with thoughtful site planning, ensuring that all functional requirements were met without compromising accessibility or safety. PARTNERS’ creative approach and careful coordination allowed the team to address the project’s complex logistical challenges while adhering to the city’s budget and timeline constraints.

This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant improvement in the city’s public safety infrastructure, enhancing the capabilities of its police and fire services and positioning the department to better serve the community for years to come.