As part of this year’s National EMS Week, the Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association spotlights a forward-thinking public safety project in Newton County that’s setting a new standard for durable, energy-efficient construction.
EMS part of New Public Safety Facility Showcasing Resilient Design
Newton County’s new public safety facility, currently wrapping up construction north of Morocco, will serve emergency medical services, 911 dispatch, and emergency management operations.
At the core of this facility is concrete — specifically, insulated concrete forms (ICFs) — offering strength, energy savings, and long-term resilience to the structure and those who rely on it.
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From Crisis to Concrete Solution
Newton County EMA Director Matthew Vandrunen, who is overseeing the construction process for the county, shared that the original facility, located on the same site, had become unsafe due to issues like black mold and rodents. Through a combination of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funding and local support, the county opted not just to replace the old structure but also rethink how it was built.
The project architect quickly identified the cost and labor savings ICF and concrete could provide. With the system’s ease of installation and strong insulating properties, Newton County stayed under its $2 million budget — even expanding ICF use to include the garage walls, originally planned as wood-framed.
A Facility Designed for Emergency Response
This multi-use building isn’t just about offices — it’s a secure, FEMA-compliant structure rated to withstand an F4 tornado, with
critical infrastructure inside:
critical infrastructure inside:
- 911 dispatch center
- Emergency Operations Center and training room
- EMS dayroom, bathroom facilities, and director’s office
-
A secure garage housing EMA vehicles, hazmat and command trailers, and a pass-through bay for ambulances between calls
Once completed, the facility will provide a hardened shelter for emergency responders — including road and EMS crews — ensuring their safety so they can continue serving and protecting the public.
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Concrete’s Lasting Value
By choosing ICFs, Newton County expects to see long-term utility savings, thanks to the material’s high R-value insulation and reduced HVAC needs. They also benefited from being able to use fiberglass rebar in ICF sections, reducing material costs without compromising strength — another advantage over traditional construction.
As communities across Indiana consider future investments in public safety infrastructure, this project serves as a model for how concrete can deliver performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness in a single solution.
“It’s a huge benefit for Newton County,” Vandrunen said. “Just even the life of the building will be extended by using ICF forms.”
The EMA Director anticipates full construction to take less than 12 months, with a community dedication event to be held in the summer of 2025.
Let’s Build for the People Who Serve
During EMS Week, IRMCA encourages leaders across the state — from county commissioners to EMS directors — to explore how concrete can support stronger, safer public facilities. We are ready to assist with information, insights, and partnerships on your next build.
Contact us at info@irmca.com to learn more about how ready mixed concrete can enhance your community’s upcoming public safety projects.
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