McFarland Public Safety Center

The McFarland Public Safety Center is a new 61,000 square foot facility housing fire and rescue, police, and municipal court departments, featuring a combination of steel framing and masonry walls with metal roof deck. Exterior walls incorporate masonry cavity walls and metal panels, while internally, metal framing and gypsum board are used alongside specialized components like bullet-resistant transaction windows and security systems. We played a crucial role in handling concrete, masonry, steel, and carpentry work, including the construction of over 150 prefabricated masonry lintels and executing a challenging slab-on-grade pour in the fire station garage. Despite facing various challenges, such as intricate masonry work and complex concrete pours, the team demonstrated adaptability, problem-solving skills, and dedication throughout the project.

The use of geothermal wells, reaching depths of over 400 feet, aligns with McFarland’s commitment to sustainable practices, utilizing the earth’s natural resources for heating and cooling. The installation of 1,146 solar panels on the roof positions the facility as a leader in renewable energy adoption. Notably, the McFarland Public Safety Center is the first net-zero public building in Wisconsin, setting an ambitious standard for energy efficiency in public infrastructure.

Bringing together the fire department, municipal courts, and police department into a unified facility not only promotes collaboration between the departments but also exemplifies efficiency in service delivery to the community. The building’s foresighted design, accommodating projected future growth, adds a strategic dimension to its uniqueness. Finally, the incorporation of radiant floor tubing connected to geothermal wells showcases an innovative solution for maintaining optimal building conditioning. Collectively, these features establish the McFarland Public Safety Center as an exemplary model of sustainable, community-focused, and forward-looking design.