UPDATE: The new Red River Regional Dispatch Center in Fargo is set to revolutionize emergency response for Cass and Clay counties, with staff expected to begin operations in early December 2023. This state-of-the-art facility promises not only advanced technology but also a comfortable work environment for dispatchers who handle critical 911 calls.
The facility, located in north Fargo, has been designed with dispatcher well-being in mind. According to Amanda Glasoe, Director of the dispatch center, “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.”
With an initial budget of $15.7 million, the project is currently under budget, with $14.2 million already spent. The new dispatch center will replace the existing downtown Fargo facility, which has only eight dispatcher consoles and limited capacity. The upgraded center will feature 12 desks, with room for an additional eight desks to accommodate future growth.
The design includes adjustable desks equipped with built-in heaters and fans, ensuring dispatcher comfort during long shifts. A full kitchen and break room are also part of the facility, featuring a unique potluck counter where dispatchers can share meals, enhancing camaraderie during their demanding work hours. “We spend holidays together,” Glasoe noted, emphasizing the strong bonds formed among the team.
Beyond the dispatch floor, the center includes dedicated spaces for rest and decompression, as well as administrative offices and a conference room. A special feature is the “tree of life” mural, which recognizes dispatchers’ life-saving contributions, such as successful CPR calls or deliveries. “You branch out and you recognize all of the different people that you touch,” Glasoe explained.
West Fargo Mayor and RRRDC Authority Board Chair Bernie Dardis highlighted the operational restructuring that this new center represents. He stated, “Hopefully that all translates into improved response times.” The collaboration among local governments, including contributions of $2.5 million from Minnesota member entities, demonstrates a commitment to enhancing community safety.
The new dispatch center will support 57 different agencies, including police and fire departments from Fargo and Moorhead, as well as sheriff’s offices and ambulance services. This expansion is crucial as the region continues to grow, ensuring that emergency response remains efficient and effective.
As the finishing touches are applied, the urgency for a modern dispatch facility has never been clearer. The new Red River Regional Dispatch Center is more than just a building; it’s a vital hub for emergency services that will significantly impact the safety and well-being of the communities in Cass and Clay counties. The official opening is highly anticipated, and as each day passes, the excitement builds for what this new facility will bring to the area’s emergency response capabilities.
