UAPD Unveils Dispatch Center Renovations

Rachel Gerner

From left: Cpl. Allen Porter, Elizabeth Brown, Chief Steve Gahagans, Chancellor Charles Robinson, Provost Terry Martin, EA Edwards, Cpt. Matt Mills and Cpt. Gary Crain.

The U of A Police Department celebrated the grand reopening of its dispatch center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 7, showcasing a comprehensive renovation.  

The dispatch center, a critical hub for campus safety operations, had not seen a significant upgrade in over 15 years. Recognizing the need for modernization, the UAPD embarked on a complete overhaul, addressing the wear-and-tear on equipment that accumulates in a 24/7 operational environment. 

The ambitious remodeling project commenced in June and concluded in mid-August, just in time for the start of the new school year. The centerpiece of the transformation was the introduction of cutting-edge dispatch consoles.

These new consoles feature a myriad of customizable options, offering individual dispatchers two-tier desk surfaces that can be adjusted in both height and depth. This adaptability ensures ergonomic comfort and efficiency during extended shifts, allowing monitors to be positioned according to the dispatcher's preferences. 

"We wanted to create an environment that not only meets the highest standards of functionality, but also takes into consideration the well-being of our dispatchers who work tirelessly to keep our campus safe," Chief Stephen Gahagans said. 

In addition to the ergonomic upgrades, the UAPD also invested in advanced radio consoles from Smith 2-Way Radio.  

"This enhancement has significantly improved communication channels between the dispatch center and patrol units, fostering a more streamlined and responsive system," noted Telecommunications Supervisor Elizabeth Brown. 

One of the notable changes is the expansion of the dispatch center from two to three consoles, reflecting the growing demands on the UAPD's communication infrastructure. This expansion ensures that the UAPD can efficiently handle emergencies, coordinate responses and maintain effective communication with officers in the field.

"The university's facilities management team spearheaded the renovation," Drew Watzke, the Facilities Management communications manager, said. "Members of the campus planning and construction services teams provided creative solutions and design recommendations and constructed the project."

The renovated dispatch center stands as a testament to the UAPD's commitment to providing the highest level of service and safety to the campus community. The advancements in technology and infrastructure not only address immediate needs, but also position the UAPD to adapt to future challenges in campus law enforcement. 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by university officials, including Chancellor Charles Robinson and Provost Terry Martin, and UAPD staff, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance security and emergency response capabilities at the U of A.

About UAPD: The University of Arkansas Police Department, in partnership with the community we serve, is dedicated to protecting and serving the future of Arkansas and beyond by embracing the philosophy of community policing and promoting a safe and secure environment through excellence, initiative and integrity.