(COLORADO SPRINGS)– The El Paso County Regional Communications Center has reopened after a $2.4 million expansion, making it the largest 911 call center in Colorado.
The expansion project, which took four months to complete, aims to improve wait times for incoming 911 calls by increasing the center’s capacity. The center now features 20 modernized dispatch consoles and 22 radio consoles, significantly enhancing its ability to handle emergency calls.
“This facility behind me empowers our dispatchers with the tools, technology, and environment they deserve to serve with precision, compassion, and professionalism,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal.
The El Paso County Regional Communications Center answered nearly 83,000 calls in 2024, a substantial increase from the 20,000 calls handled in 2012 when the center first opened. This rise in call volume reflects the rapid growth of the region.
Meighan Powell, El Paso County 911 Dispatch Communications Manager, noted that the center’s average call answer time for 2025 is 7.24 seconds, well below the National Emergency Number Association’s standard of 15 seconds.
The expansion was deemed necessary due to the expected population growth in El Paso County, which is projected to reach one million by 2050. Sheriff Roybal emphasized the importance of the expansion in keeping pace with the increasing demand for emergency services.
The new facility also includes a training center with six additional backup call stations and a wellness room to support the mental health of dispatchers. Powell highlighted improvements such as sound-dampening technology and increased space, which help reduce stress for both callers and responders.
The communications center says it will continue to educate kids on how and when it is appropriate to call 911 by offering tours and visiting schools.
With the completion of the expansion, the El Paso County Regional Communications Center is now better equipped to serve the growing community, ensuring that no emergency call goes unanswered.
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