Columbus Police Department Completes 911 Center Renovation Project

Staff Report

The Columbus Police Department has completed major renovations to its 911 Emergency Communications Centers, marking a significant upgrade to its primary and backup facilities. The renovations, which were approved by the Columbus City Council on Jan. 23, 2024, were designed to enhance dispatch operations and improve service to the community.

In early 2023, Police Chief Stoney Mathis initiated a review of the department’s 911 facilities and identified a need for substantial upgrades. Working closely with Mayor Skip Henderson, the department secured an additional $581,459 in funding for the project.

The renovation included the installation of 31 new dispatch consoles at both the primary 911 center at Police Headquarters and the backup center at 3111 Citizens Way. The project also upgraded electrical systems, flooring, lighting and data infrastructure in both locations.

The renovations were completed in two phases, with the backup center finished first to allow staff to temporarily relocate while work continued at the headquarters. The upgraded centers were fully operational as of December 23, 2024.

The total cost of the project was $662,554.86, with $110,200.33 allocated to the backup center and $552,354.53 to the headquarters. Vendors involved in the project included Russ Bassett Corporation, Mobile Communications America, Chambley Electric Company, Huckaby Brothers Floor Covering, Interstate Electrical Supply and Phoenix Installations.

Additional support was provided by the Columbus Consolidated Government’s Information Technology, Finance and Purchasing departments, as well as the Columbus Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

The project’s completion coincides with National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, which takes place Apr. 13-19, 2025, highlighting the important role of 911 dispatchers in ensuring public safety. The upgrades serve as a valuable investment in improving the working environment for dispatch staff and enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies.