Suffolk Construction has broken ground on the Integrated Command & Communications Centre at Lightspeed in Sweetwater, Florida, US, taking on the role of design-build partner for the US$210 million project.
The facility is poised to become one of the most advanced emergency response centres in the region, enhancing the safety and resilience of Miami-Dade County.
The company will manage both the design and construction phases of the facility as the chosen design-build partner.
Suffolk is deploying digital modelling to identify potential challenges early in the process, aiming to reduce risks and keep costs under control.
Around 25 per cent of the project’s construction value will be sourced from small business enterprises.
Key features of the centre include advanced video technology for real-time situational awareness, a 24-metre-tall communications tower for emergency connectivity, and a rooftop helipad capable of supporting helicopters weighing up to 13 tonnes.
The facility will also incorporate 600 electric vehicle charging stations, an on-site fuelling station for essential fleets, and design elements intended to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver certification.
The Integrated Command & Communications Centre will provide secure operational space for the mayor, county commissioners, and other officials, enabling coordinated decision-making during crises.
Once complete, the complex will serve as Miami-Dade’s emergency response headquarters, equipped to address major incidents such as hurricanes, natural disasters, and large-scale public safety events.
Construction is being carefully staged next to an active 911 call centre to avoid disruptions to essential emergency services.
Suffolk East Coast Florida general manager Thomas Thrasher said: “Lightspeed is one of the most consequential projects underway in Miami-Dade, and Suffolk is honoured to have been selected to deliver it.
“We are excited to bring our deep experience designing and building complex, high-impact, and high-integrity facilities, and we take that responsibility seriously.”
Suffolk has an established presence in South Florida, with a project portfolio spanning sectors from hospitality and residential to aviation and transportation.
Among its notable developments are the Seminole Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Palm Beach Gardens, the Joule House in Miami, and expansion projects at Palm Beach International Airport and PortMiami.