The new two-story 37,000 square-foot Regional Operations Center (ROC) safely and securely houses the County’s mission-critical emergency operations including 9-1-1 Public Safety Dispatch, an Emergency Operations Center, and the Office of Emergency Services. Constructed to the highest seismic standards, it is a hub for public safety responders during catastrophic events.

The new 9-1-1 dispatch center is aligned with state and national goals of consolidated systems and operations, which will provide opportunities for all public safety agencies to take advantage of the state-of-art facility and new technology. Call takers can receive multi-media messages from the public including streaming video, text messages and still photos, allowing Public Safety Dispatchers to access data that will provide more comprehensive information for first responders.

The ROC is designed to operate for up to seven days without PG&E-provided power or city-provided water. The structure is built to withstand violent shaking from an earthquake with redundant electrical, water and other systems. Following a major disaster, responders and dispatchers will be self-sufficient with enough food and water for up to 10 days.

Sustainability features include sustainable building materials and green infrastructure through the use of bioswales. The new Regional Operations Center contributes to the County of San Mateo’s dedication to advancing equity by providing accessible public space through the inclusion of gender-neutral restrooms and additional accessible public space.

The building is certified LEED Silver by the U.S. Green Building Council.