Exeter Plans Public Presentation on Safety Complex Options
Exeter Plans Public Presentation on Safety Complex Options
Exeter, NH: April 18th, 2022 - The town of Exeter will hold a presentation on May 4 to outline options and gain public input
as it considers plans to address inadequacies with the existing Public Safety Complex. The presentation will begin at 6 p.m. at the Exeter Town Hall, 9 Front St. Light refreshments will be served.
The town, in coordination with Lavallee Brensinger Architects, has developed several options to address the current space and operational issues with the 43-year-old facility.
An analysis of the existing Public Safety Complex began after Exeter voters approved a $100,000 warrant article in 2021 for the purpose of evaluating alternatives for a new Public Safety Complex. Lavallee Brensinger Architects was hired to work with the town and the Facilities Advisory Committee to develop those alternatives targeting deficiencies with the current facility.
The Fire Department, Police Department, Planning and Sustainability Department, and Lavallee Brensinger Architects are inviting the public to attend the upcoming presentation, where the multiple options will be presented followed by a public input session. The town hopes to hear from the public on the alternatives.
The current Public Safety Complex at 20 Court St. was built in 1979 and houses both the police and fire departments. Since the facility was built, Exeter’s population has increased by approximately 5,000 residents (a 46% increase) and staffing in both the police and fire departments has grown from 44 employees to 72 employees (a 64% increase).
Multiple renovations have been done to the building by installing partitions to make more rooms - though they are smaller - to accommodate the growing departments, but it is time to examine alternatives beyond the current facility.
“The existing complex poses many challenges and we're pleased that options are being explored to address them. I'm looking forward to meeting with the members of our community on May 4 to discuss and receive input on such an important public safety project for the town of Exeter,” Police Chief Stephan Poulin said.
Fire Chief Eric Wilking is also looking forward to hearing from the public and finding a solution. “Many studies dating back over 20 years have indicated the need for more space and quicker fire and EMS response to areas of town currently underserved. The fire department is excited to work with members of the community, town committees, and Lavallee Brensinger Architects to determine the most appropriate option to address current and future needs,” he said.
For a more in depth look at the current facilities space needs, visit the Exeter Public Safety Complex Analysis page to view a detailed video walkthrough of each department along with other materials on the project.
