UPDATE: The new Red River Regional Dispatch Center in Fargo is nearing completion and set to revolutionize 911 response for Cass and Clay counties. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to open its doors in early December 2023, providing a modern and comfortable workspace for the region’s emergency dispatchers.
As dispatchers prepare to transition from their cramped downtown Fargo location, the new center promises significant upgrades in both technology and comfort. With a budget originally set at $15.7 million, the project is currently under budget at $14.2 million spent, according to Director Amanda Glasoe. This facility will serve 57 agencies, including local police, fire departments, and ambulance services.
The new dispatch center features 12 desks equipped with large computer screens for optimal call handling and coordination, with room for an additional eight desks. Each workstation offers adjustable height options, built-in climate control, and ergonomic features to ensure dispatcher comfort during their demanding 10- to 12-hour shifts.
Glasoe emphasized the importance of comfort for staff who often spend more time at work than with their families. “Making sure that they’re comfortable the whole time is pretty important,” she stated. The facility will also include a fully equipped kitchen and break area, promoting community among dispatchers through shared meals and potlucks.
Beyond the dispatch floor, the center will provide dedicated spaces for staff to decompress, along with administrative offices and training rooms. A notable feature of the facility is the “tree of life” mural, symbolizing the profound impact dispatchers have on their community by recognizing life-saving interventions, such as CPR calls and successful deliveries.
West Fargo Mayor and RRRDC Authority Board Chair Bernie Dardis praised the collaborative effort that brought this project to fruition. “This facility is a milestone for collaboration between each partner,” he said, highlighting the importance of efficient response times in emergency situations.
Funding for the project is supported by Minnesota member entities, contributing $2.5 million towards construction costs, with additional support from taxpayers in Cass County, West Fargo, and Fargo. Dardis noted that improved efficiency in operations is crucial for enhancing public safety.
As the new Red River Regional Dispatch Center prepares to open, the community can expect a significant boost in emergency response capabilities, underscoring the importance of a well-equipped and comfortable environment for those on the front lines of public safety.
Residents are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates as staff transitions to the new facility this December, marking a new era for emergency services in the Fargo area.
