Exeter committee says new police and fire facility is progressing; waterproofing and rough-ins underway

The Exeter Facilities Advisory Committee heard a construction update on the town’s new police and fire facility, which project staff described as moving from earthwork into interior systems work.

Town Manager Paul Collins reported that site work is largely complete, crews have begun rough plumbing and electrical on the first floor and will proceed to the second floor in the coming weeks. Waterproofing is scheduled to finish by the end of the week, and fire-protection rough-ins on the second floor will continue into next week. Collins said most site unknowns are behind the project and overall progress is ‘going well.’

Collins said contractors and the architect are meeting on site and the project team is addressing requests for information, including door keying plans and telecommunications outlet locations. He noted the level of current work has shifted to finish decisions such as paint colors and hardware selections.

The committee discussed commissioning: whether it is performed by the contractor or an independent third party. Collins said commissioning is included in the project and that he believes it is being handled through the contractor but that he would confirm. The committee emphasized the value of independent checks during commissioning to validate systems integration.

There were no formal motions or objections on this update. Committee members praised the project team’s coordination and the new police chief’s attention to systems integration. The committee requested continued regular on‑site updates as the building moves into framing and finishes.