State and local officials joined Minnesota emergency management leaders today (Thu) to break ground on the new Minnesota Emergency Operations Center in Blaine.
The site will serve as the central command and control facility for supporting communities experiencing disasters and other emergency incidents.
“In times of crisis, one of the best resources we have to protect Minnesotans is our dedicated team of emergency managers who coordinate with local, county, and federal partners,” said Governor Tim Walz. “The new State Emergency Operations Center will be the hub for state agencies and their partners to come together and prepare for and handle any emergencies that come our way. This is an investment in the safety of every community across the state.”
The $41 million project is funded through 2020 and 2023 capital investment bills.
According to Walz’s office, the new 37,000-square-foot facility will sit on 20 acres in Blaine and replace the current inadequate operations center in St. Paul. The new building will offer clear sight lines and include critical safety and modernization updates, including Geothermal heating/cooling and solar panels for electricity, the ability to withstand an EF3 tornado, protection from lightning and power surges and the capability to house and feed emergency staff
(Photo: Gov. Walz office)