Pender County Law Enforcement Center
The Pender County Law Enforcement Center combines three essential public safety operations: the sheriff's office, detention center, and 911 communications center. This 97,000-square-foot complex represents years of detailed planning that began with studies in 2011 to address jail overcrowding and evolved into a comprehensive public safety solution.
Construction and Materials
The complex meets rigorous fire-safety and security standards through its construction materials and methods. The exterior combines concrete and brick veneer over a steel frame, creating a secure perimeter. Inside, concrete masonry unit walls divide the space into secure zones. The roofing system uses thermoplastic polyolefin membrane, selected for its durability and ability to reflect heat. These materials work together to satisfy building codes for both detention and administrative spaces. Within this secure envelope, three distinct operational areas serve different public safety functions.
Sheriff's Operations Command
The 34,000-square-foot sheriff's office area contains secure spaces for command staff and specialized divisions. Investigators examine evidence in dedicated processing rooms, while narcotics officers plan operations in spaces designed for confidential work. The layout connects briefing rooms to a weapons storage facility that meets federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives requirements. Between shifts, officers use the fitness center and locker rooms.
Detention Center Operations
Occupying 64,264 square feet of the facility, the detention center contains 242 beds distributed across seven housing pods, positioned to maximize officer supervision while reducing staff movement. The magistrate's office sits between the public lobby and intake area, balancing accessibility with security. The intake sequence moves from the sally port through booking stations to medical screening. A commercial kitchen and industrial laundry support daily operations.
Emergency Communications
Supporting both law enforcement and detention operations, the 2,600-square-foot 911 center accommodates ten dispatch stations with room for future expansion. Windows provide natural light at angles that prevent glare on computer screens. A raised floor system conceals and protects essential power and data infrastructure. The communications tower connects dispatchers with police, fire, and emergency medical teams throughout the county.
Building Systems
These three operational areas rely on integrated mechanical and electrical systems to maintain safety and security. Air handling equipment includes smoke removal capabilities for emergency situations, while backup generators ensure critical systems keep running during power outages. Officers monitor security cameras and control electronic doors through touchscreen interfaces. Multiple safety systems protect staff and inmates, including duress alarms and two-way intercoms.
Site Design
Beyond the main structure, the property's grading directs water through stormwater retention systems to protect both the facility and neighboring properties. A lift station moves wastewater to the municipal sewer system even during power outages. Security fencing and automated gates create layers of protection, while separate routes keep public visitors, staff, and secure transport vehicles on different paths.
Emergency Response Readiness
Completing the complex, a separate 4,500-square-foot metal building houses emergency vehicles next to the main facility. Four specialized bays protect vehicles with sensitive equipment, while three additional bays allow for maintenance work. A pull-through bay accommodates ladder trucks and mobile command units. The Special Response Team's vehicle occupies a specially secured bay for rapid deployment.
This facility demonstrates how research-based planning and integrated design advance law enforcement capabilities and public safety operations.
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