UPDATE: The new Red River Regional Dispatch Center in Fargo is set to open its doors in early December 2023, transforming the working environment for local 911 dispatchers. As final touches are applied to the facility, officials emphasize its significant upgrades in technology and comfort, crucial for dispatchers handling emergency calls.
Director Amanda Glasoe highlighted the importance of staff comfort, stating, “The dispatchers spend 10- to 12-plus hours a day at these positions, so making sure that they’re comfortable that whole time is pretty important.” The center, which serves Cass and Clay counties, aims to create a supportive atmosphere for those working under high-stress conditions.
Originally projected to cost $15.7 million, the project is currently running under budget, with $14.2 million spent so far. The new facility will feature 12 desks equipped with large computer screens for coordinating responses from 57 different agencies, including local police, fire departments, and ambulance services.
The existing dispatch center, located in a downtown Fargo mixed-use building, has faced safety and space issues, prompting the need for this upgrade. The new dispatch floor will not only accommodate more staff but is also designed for flexibility, allowing desks to be adjusted for sitting or standing. Each desk is equipped with built-in heaters and fans to ensure comfort.
For quick breaks, dispatchers will have access to a full kitchen and break room, featuring a potluck counter for shared meals, reflecting the close-knit culture among the team. “We spend holidays together. We spend more time than we spend with our friends or our family often, so they do a lot of potlucks together,” Glasoe noted.
In addition to operational spaces, the facility will include areas for dispatchers to rest and decompress during shifts, along with administrative offices and a dedicated training space. A notable feature is the “tree of life” mural, which symbolizes the far-reaching impact dispatchers have when they save lives or assist in births.
West Fargo Mayor and RRRDC Authority Board Chair Bernie Dardis emphasized that the new center marks a significant milestone in regional collaboration, stating, “Through working together, we’re more efficient.” The funding for the project includes $2.5 million contributed by Minnesota member entities, with the remainder covered by taxpayers from Cass County, West Fargo, and Fargo.
As the opening date approaches, the community eagerly anticipates the enhanced capabilities and improved response times that the Red River Regional Dispatch Center promises to deliver. This facility not only represents a substantial investment in public safety but also showcases the commitment to providing a supportive work environment for those dedicated to protecting the community.
