Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue – Command & Business Operations Center

Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (TVF&R)’s newly renovated, 38,830 sf Command and Business Operations Center (CBOC) is expected to operate for a minimum of 30 years. Howard S. Wright seismically upgraded the existing structure and completed an interior build-out of the 3-story core and brick veneer shell.

The new facility is designed to meet current codes to withstand a major earthquake. Its’ steel frame and lateral bracing system, known as Buckling-Restrained Braces (BRB), include large steel tubes designed to ‘dampen’ the building’s movement during an earthquake.

As an essential facility, the building is now equipped with the support functions necessary for post-earthquake response and recovery with upgraded backup electrical, data and HVAC systems. CBOC also has an on-site electrical generation plant (two 500kw generators and a 4,100 gallon fuel tank) to provide at least 78 hours of standby power, ensuring the District’s computer server and communications equipment continue to operate during a major emergency or disaster.

Minimal hard walls (offices), lower cubicle partitions, overhead self-dimming light fixtures and sensor-controlled window blinds allow for better utilization of natural day lighting, more uniform heating and cooling in the building and higher energy savings. In addition to staff workspaces, the project included meeting rooms, a research library, common work and storage areas, break rooms and a workout room.