South Sound 911 issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) today to select an architectural design team for a new public safety communications center (PSCC). The PSCC will be constructed at 3580 Pacific Ave. in Tacoma utilizing a traditional design/bid/build process.
In the months ahead, South Sound 911 will finalize planning and design before going to bid for a construction contractor. It is anticipated that construction could begin by late 2018 or early 2019.
The project was originally intended to follow a public-private partnership (63-20) or lease-back process. However, South Sound 911’s executive director recommended a traditional design/bid/build process so the agency will have clearer ownership and control.
South Sound 911’s PSCC project already overcame several setbacks with site selection, but Executive Director Andrew Neiditz is quick to note that the RFQ does not signify another setback.
“The time will be well-utilized and will be worth the wait,” Neiditz said. “Our primary responsibility is to the community and to support the first responders who serve them, so it is in everyone’s best interest to move forward conscientiously.”
RFQ responses are due to South Sound 911 by 3 p.m. PDT on July 18, 2017.
For more information on the PSCC project and its history, visit www.southsound911.org/pscc.