by Brianna Crandall — August 25, 2014—Lakeland, Florida-based Furr & Wegman Architects, a multidisciplinary firm with specialized expertise in education, health care, commercial, and residential projects, was selected to design the new Polk State Center for Public Safety at Polk State College, for which the groundbreaking ceremony took place August 21.
The new 100,000 square foot, two-story facility will be home to the Kenneth C. Thompson Institute for Public Safety, which grants certificate and degrees in programs including Criminal Justice Technology and Emergency Medical Services. The facility will emphasize simulation and scenario-based training, and includes two emergency medical services (EMS) labs, a 270-degree firearms simulator, driving simulators, defensive tactics training, forensics laboratory, computer labs and general classrooms along with student support services.
A street scene-based outdoor area will train EMS and Criminal Justice students in real-life situations, and will be flanked by a stand-alone two-story facility for Immersive Training that allows for situational-based training settings.
A new 500-seat auditorium and large tiered classrooms in the Center will also be available to surrounding public safety organizations and municipalities for continuing education and specialized training. The Center is situated on ten acres deeded to the College by the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, and is adjacent to the sheriff’s complex, also designed by Furr & Wegman.
“Polk State College’s vision for this project was to create a campus devoted to the advanced techniques and training required of those with whom we entrust our lives,” said Principal Phil Wegman. “We are very proud of the building design and are thrilled to have had the opportunity to work with Polk State College including the directors of their Criminal Justice and EMS programs and the sheriff to bring this vision to reality.”
Added Principal Mike Furr, “Furr & Wegman is proud to expand our portfolio of work for institutions of learning while also expanding our work in the public services sector. Our experience helps us to work with our clients to create spaces for very specialized education and training.”
