This project involves the construction of a new, single-story Emergency Operations Center in Hardee County. The $9.5 million facility, funded through a state grant from the Florida Division of Emergency Management, will replace the current building that failed during Hurricane Ian in 2022.
The exterior walls will be constructed with 12-inch cast-in-place concrete and rated to withstand Category 5 hurricane winds. The new facility will include a situation room, two breakout rooms, a public lobby, a press room, administrative offices, workspaces, restrooms, logistics storage, a radio area, and a GIS space. An emergency generator will be installed on site to fully power the facility in the event of electrical outages caused by severe weather.