Hermiston Public Safety Center

 
McCormack Construction is partnering with the City of Hermiston and Umatilla County Fire District #1 on a comprehensive renovation and expansion of the Hermiston Public Safety Center, the central service location for both the Hermiston Police Department and UCFD #1. The $10.8 million project is currently in progress at 320 S 1st Street and represents a significant investment in public safety infrastructure for the City of Hermiston and Umatilla County. McCormack was selected based on its strong reputation and successful previous work with UCFD #1.
 
The project involves a 33,800-square-foot remodel of the existing facility, a new 3,700-square-foot addition, and 93,000 square feet of exterior improvements. McCormack is serving as CM/GC and design-build lead for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire sprinkler systems. The work is being completed in two phases: Phase 1 began in May 2024 and was completed in November 2024, while Phase 2 started in December 2024 and is scheduled for completion in February 2025.
 
Managing this project has required addressing multiple complex challenges, including coordinating work between two separate owners, managing public scrutiny of a high-profile facility, and navigating the age of the existing building with limited documentation. The occupied facility presented additional complications, requiring construction to proceed without disrupting police and fire operations. Existing hazardous materials, strict seismic requirements, and the complexity of design-build MEP systems added further layers of difficulty to the large scope of work.
 
McCormack worked closely with both owners and the design team to phase the project strategically, allowing Hermiston Police staff to continue operations during Phase 2 construction. The team tracked down as-built drawings and conducted extensive pre-construction exploration to document existing conditions. A hazmat specialist was brought in to test materials and monitor safe handling throughout construction. McCormack maintained meticulous review of seismic design documents and open communication with the Engineer of Record to ensure correct installation sequences. Experienced design-build subcontractors with strong working relationships were engaged, and focused pre-construction design efforts maximized efficiency.
 
The project remains under budget and on schedule, with both owners very satisfied with progress. For McCormack Construction, this project demonstrates expertise in complex public safety facility renovation while maintaining full operational continuity for essential emergency services.