AE Works Designs New Public Safety Building

AE Works is honored to lead the design of the new Washington County Public Safety Building providing a state-of-the-art civic facility that enhances public safety, operational efficiency, and community engagement.

The Washington County Courthouse Square Redevelopment Project aims to replace the aging and structurally compromised 250,000-SF office tower annex, and parking structure with a modern, mixed-use community and civic building. The new development will enhance public safety operations, improve accessibility, and provide structured parking with future development potential. This phased project will ensure the continuity of critical public services, including the 911 Annex operations, while integrating updated infrastructure and modernized facilities to serve Washington County residents more efficiently. 

APPROACH: The project will be executed in multiple phases to maintain essential services during construction. The initial phase involves the completion of the new Public Safety Building (PSB) to accommodate the Sheriff’s Office, Probation, Booking, the 911 Facility, and County Buildings & Grounds offices. Once the PSB is operational, the 911 Annex program will be relocated, and the existing annex structure will either be temporarily repurposed or demolished for further site development. A carefully coordinated demolition plan will prioritize the maintenance of pedestrian and vehicular access, utility services, and emergency power systems. Additionally, communication infrastructure will be safeguarded, with oversight from the county’s communications consultant to ensure uninterrupted emergency management functions. 

IMPACT: This redevelopment project will transform the heart of Washington County by providing a state-of-the-art civic facility that enhances public safety, operational efficiency, and community engagement. The new facility will improve accessibility and functionality, ensuring that government services are delivered in a modern, secure, and user-friendly environment. By incorporating shared amenity spaces such as training rooms, conference areas, and public meeting rooms, the project will foster collaboration among government agencies while enhancing public accessibility. The project will also pave the way for future economic development opportunities through strategic site planning and infrastructure improvements.