Public Safety

Portsmouth Police Station

Portsmouth, RI

The project began as a feasibility study to determine if a new Police Station could be built on the same site as the existing building (1975, 5,000 SF) along with a Space Needs Study to develop a building program. We were able to make a new building possible while maintaining the current Police Station operations on this tight site. The new station totals 25,322 SF.

At the completion of the study, DRA aided the Town by writing RFP’s for a hazardous material survey, Phase 1 environmental Assessment, as well as test borings and geo-technical report. The project then proceeded to public referendum where DRA assisted with public engagement. The funding referendum was approved by a majority of the Town’s voters.

The Town re-advertised for architects before proceeding with the next phase and DRA was fortunate to be re-hired to perform the work through construction. The project faced particular demands as it is the command center for the Town and is located in a hurricane zone. This required  attention to detailing and material selection.

Construction proceeded on schedule despite a very constrained site, which housed the existing police headquarters, the fire station, and department of public works as well as the construction of the new PD headquarters. Through careful and continuous evaluation by the entire project team, a number of value engineering changes were instituted during construction, allowing the project to be completed within budget and on schedule.