COHASSET – Town officials presented an extensive update on the proposed public safety complex during a March 4 meeting, emphasizing the need for improved facilities and faster emergency response times. The project, which involves repurposing the office building at 135 King Street and upgrading the existing Elm Street police and fire station, is intended to modernize the town’s public safety infrastructure.
The town’s Owner’s Project Manager, Dan Pallotta, and public safety leaders provided details on the timeline, funding, and structural challenges of the project.
“We’re just out of room,” said Chief William Quigley. “When this station was built, it was designed for about eight officers. We now have 37 employees.”
A key component of the project includes transforming the King Street facility into a Level 4 public safety building, capable of withstanding major weather events and ensuring operational continuity.
“This building doesn’t have that type of a structure,” said Pallotta, noting the need for additional reinforcements, including new foundations and cross braces.
One of the most significant improvements will be the addition of a fire substation at the new King Street site, which officials say will drastically cut response times for certain areas of town.
“It will probably cut some of our response times in half,” said Fire Chief John Dockray. “Right now, the Beechwood area can see 10-minute response times. That will change.”
Town leaders have been working closely with state and federal officials to identify potential funding opportunities. Meetings with U.S. Senator Ed Markey’s office and state representatives have focused on securing grants and financial support for the emergency operations center, which will be relocated from the Deer Hill School basement to the new facility.
Cohasset Select Board members expressed strong support for the project, highlighting the importance of public outreach to ensure residents understand the proposal before it is brought to a special town meeting in November.
“What price do you put on the safety of our teams and the people that keep this town safe?” asked Select Board member Paul Grady.
Officials encouraged residents to review project documents posted on the town’s website and attend upcoming community meetings for further discussion.
“If you don’t think we need a new police and fire station, take a tour,” said Select Board member Jack Creighton.
For more Cohasset news, visit the South Shore Times Cohasset homepage. The entire meeting can be viewed on Harbor Media.