The Columbus Police Department has successfully completed extensive renovations to its primary 911 Emergency Communications Center at Police Headquarters and its backup center at 3111 Citizens Way. This upgrade project, which began in early 2023, aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response services in the region.
In January 2023, Columbus Police Chief Stoney Mathis initiated a comprehensive review of the department’s 911 facilities. Upon identifying the need for significant improvements, Chief Mathis collaborated with Mayor Skip Henderson to secure the necessary funding for the project. On January 23, 2024, the Columbus City Council approved an additional $581,459 to support the upgrades, ultimately bringing the total cost of the project to $662,554.86.
The renovations, which were carried out in phases, included the installation of 31 new custom dispatch consoles across both centers, designed by the Russ Bassett Corporation, a leading manufacturer of emergency dispatch workstations. In addition to the new consoles, the upgrades also involved improvements to the flooring, electrical systems, lighting, and expanded data infrastructure, ensuring that both centers meet the modern demands of emergency communications.
The backup center renovations were completed first, allowing staff to temporarily relocate while work on the Headquarters Center was underway. The entire project was completed by December 23, 2024, with both centers now fully operational and equipped with state-of-the-art tools and infrastructure to support 911 dispatchers in their critical work.
The costs associated with the renovations were broken down as follows:
- Backup Center: $110,200.33
- Headquarters Center: $552,354.53
- Total Project Cost: $662,554.86
A number of vendors and partners played a crucial role in bringing the renovations to life:
- Russ Bassett Corporation (dispatch furniture)
- Mobile Communications America (radio equipment)
- Chambley Electric Company (electrical work)
- Huckaby Brothers Floor Covering (flooring)
- Interstate Electrical Supply (materials and supplies)
- Phoenix Installations (onsite installation)
Additionally, the Columbus Consolidated Government’s Information Technology, Finance, and Purchasing Departments, along with the Columbus Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, provided essential support throughout the project.
This major investment comes just ahead of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, which runs from April 13–19, 2025. The upgraded facilities serve as a timely reminder of the critical role that 911 dispatchers play in ensuring public safety, and the improvements reflect a meaningful commitment to enhancing the work environment and tools for these dedicated professionals.
