County updates on ambulance relocation, station renovations and Justice Center progress

Scott County officials described multiple public-safety facility updates during the June 26 meeting, including a planned ambulance relocation to Jacobs Way, needed basement renovations at Jacobs Way to accommodate crews, and steady progress on a separate Justice Center construction project.

Fire/EMS leader Chris briefed the court: city fire requested moving two ambulances to Jacobs Way so the city could consolidate downtown operations under one roof. Chris said city fire would respond to critical downtown calls that might arrive a minute or two before county crews, and that the move would place ambulances closer to the hospital and South End neighborhoods.

The county has been offered the Jacobs Way basement space for ambulances, but staff said work is needed to add showers and separate bathrooms for male and female crews and to create sleeping rooms for up to four bunks. "There's 1 shower and 1 bath bathroom ... what needs to be done is having 2 bathrooms with 2 showers for male and female," Chris said; staff are obtaining estimates for those renovations.

Officials said they will pursue temporary air conditioning for a medical supply room at the new station while a long-term solution is arranged, and they plan a ribbon-cutting in July once remaining furniture and minor items are installed.

Jared Holland provided a building update on the Justice Center project, reporting that steel erection is underway and stormwater infrastructure performed during recent rain. He said the basement punch list is scheduled for walk-through and that the first floor and voting center area are close to completion; the county clerk will have control over a voting center area in the new building.

Court members asked for continued updates as renovation estimates and schedules are finalized. No formal votes were taken on project financing at this meeting; staff said they will return with cost estimates and timelines.