Hamilton County officials and public safety personnel gathered Thursday, March 19, to mark a significant construction milestone for the new Public Safety Center — a facility designed to strengthen emergency response across the county.

Staff from Hamilton County 911 and the Emergency Management Agency joined members of the Board of Commissioners for a ceremonial beam signing, a longstanding construction tradition symbolizing progress and teamwork. After signing the beam, attendees watched as it was lifted into place and installed at the front of the developing complex.

The event also gave employees a firsthand look at the building that will soon become their new workplace.

“Seeing our team members sign that beam and then watch it go into place was a powerful reminder of the people behind this work,” said Commission President Christine Altman. “This facility will give them the space, technology, and protection they need to serve our residents at the highest level — no matter the situation.”

The new 108,000-square-foot, three-story Public Safety Center will house the county’s 911 dispatch operations, Emergency Management Agency, and a state-of-the-art Emergency Operations Center. The EOC is being designed to remain operational even during extreme weather events, including an F5 tornado.

Once complete, the facility is expected to significantly enhance coordination among emergency services and improve the county’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to crises.

Construction is ongoing, with the building scheduled to be completed and ready for occupancy in spring 2027.