Kent County

The Kent County Sheriff’s department gained much needed additional space for its offices and training facilities with this $27.5 million expansion that doubled its size. In addition, the original part of the building was completely renovated to blend seamlessly with the new construction.

The original portion of the building was stripped down to the existing support structure and new door openings, windows, stairwells, corridors and rooms were carved out. The space was outfitted with new electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems, as well as new finishes.

New windows were scheduled to be installed in existing poured concrete walls, but many of the walls were out of plumb. Similar complications arose with installing new door frames in the original space, including walls that varied in thickness or were out of plumb. Together, Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., the owner and the architect reviewed each of the individual issues and identified an economical, yet aesthetically pleasing, solution.

The 7,000 square foot Ballistic Training Center allows for scenario-based training with large vehicles. Key system components were positioned to avoid damage from shooting range activities. Ductwork was mounted on the roof, while light fixtures and fire protection lines were hung between the joists behind protective bullet proof material.