Temple Terrace Kicks Off Construction on $6M Hurricane-Proof Emergency Hub

Work starts soon on Temple Terrace's $6 million storm-ready command center. The two-story building got its final approval from city leaders on Sept. 16. It will sit next to Fire Station No. 1 on Bullard Parkway, taking up 8,955 square feet.

Built to withstand fierce storms, the structure can take winds of 200 mph. That's strong enough for the worst hurricanes and twisters that might strike. The old center falls short, rated only for milder Category 2 storms.

"There were 100 things wrong with it," Mayor Andy Ross said per Tampa Beacon, describing the existing emergency response space as "shoving 35 kids into a 20x20 portable classroom."

State funds covered most costs: $4.5 million came through in 2023. The city added $1.5 million to complete the budget. This money survived a massive cut where the state dropped over $500 million in projects.

The building will house both staff and vital systems, with 911 services at its core. Below ground, a huge tank will catch storm water. "The entire 100-year storm volume" fits in this tank, says John Thompson, the project's architect.

City Planner Joe Moreda praised the design's fit with nearby buildings. "It's a very nice-looking building that fits the architectural style of the CRA and it will provide you a building we believe that you can be proud of," Moreda said.

Staff now squeeze into a small classroom at the fire station. Big storms force them to move to the local elementary school. The new center ends this problem: no more rushing to pack up when bad weather hits.

One generator will power both the center and Fire Station No. 1. Tech systems will move from city hall to a fresh Public Works site under construction.

Ybor City's Wilder Architecture drew up plans for the 1.45-acre site. They aim to finish by Feb. 28, 2027. Supply chain issues and worker shortages might push this date back.