Kent Pullen RC&ECC
Renton, WA

Architecture, landscape architecture and urban design for a state-of-the art regional communications and emergency coordination center.

Hewitt worked on every element of King County's Regional Communications and Emergency Coordination Center from initial site selection and planning, through architecture and landscape architecture design. Our work focused on creating an efficient, supportive and secure work environment for the employees, who work under stressful conditions. The solution develops the architectural possibilities of a survivable building with redundant, technologically-advanced systems.

The 34,800 square foot essential facility combines King County's Office of Emergency Management and the Sheriff's 911 Center. The LEED-certified building will function as the seat of county government and a primary communications center after a man-made or natural disaster. Program components include:

* 911 call-taking and police dispatch operation rooms
* emergency coordination room
* radio and telecommunications rooms
* administrative offices
* two on-site communications towers
* two emergency generators with on-site diesel fuel tank
* two HVAC air handlers
* two boilers
* two uninterruptible power systems
* on-site 15,000 gallon water tank

Landscape design focused on the creation of an interesting arrival sequence; separation of parking areas for visitors, employees, and emergency activation; and the development of three primary courtyards for public arrival, employee relaxation and emergency activation overflow functions. Landscape materials were selected to blend the site into adjacent woodlands, address sustainability goals for the project and respect the maintenance capabilities of the county.

Associate Architect: RossDrulisCusenbery