PAPILLION, Neb. – Sarpy County is on schedule to complete a $4.6 million renovation of its 911 communications center, moving dispatchers out of the cramped basement of the county administration building where they have worked since 1995. The project will repurpose the former Pinnacle Bank building, located just down the street from the county’s main campus.
Modern technology and healthier work environment
Emergency Communications Director Bill Muldoon explained that the primary goal of the renovation is to give dispatchers the space and tools they need to serve a growing county. “We need the expansion room as the county has grown. The air doesn’t get circulated like it should, so this new facility is going to have the latest and newest HVAC system for a healthier work environment for the dispatchers,” Muldoon said.
The upgraded center will feature state‑of‑the‑art technology, including transcription and translation software to assist with non‑English calls, ensuring faster, more accurate response for all residents.
Facilities that support staff well‑being
Beyond technology, the renovation includes a dedicated fitness area, a kitchen, and an outdoor break space. Muldoon said these amenities are intended to promote the physical health and morale of the dispatch team, whose work can be high‑stress and demanding.
“Our people are the heart of emergency response. Providing them with a place to stay active, eat well, and take a breath of fresh air will help them stay sharp when lives are on the line,” Muldoon added.
Timeline and next steps
The county aims to move operations into the new building by early 2027. Construction is proceeding on schedule, with the county’s finance team confirming that the $4.6 million budget remains on track.
Local officials have highlighted the project as an investment in public safety that aligns with Sarpy County’s broader growth strategy. By modernizing the dispatch center, the county hopes to improve response times, reduce dispatcher fatigue, and better serve a population that has expanded significantly over the past two decades.
Community impact
Residents can expect faster, more reliable emergency services once the new center is operational. The upgraded translation tools will also help non‑English‑speaking community members receive timely assistance, reinforcing Sarpy County’s commitment to serving all its citizens.
County commissioners plan to hold a public open house later this year to showcase the finished facility and demonstrate the new technology to community members.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
