Lenox Celebrates New Public Safety Complex Designed by Caolo & Bieniek

CHICOPEE — The town of Lenox marked a major milestone this past weekend with the ribbon cutting of its new public safety complex — a modern, future-ready facility designed by Caolo & Bieniek Architects (CBA).

The project brings the town’s Police, Fire, and EMS departments together under one roof for the first time, replacing aging and undersized buildings that had long limited departmental operations.

The new, 21,000-square-foot complex stems from CBA’s 2019 Space Needs Analysis, which assessed conditions at existing facilities and explored renovation and siting options. That study ultimately guided the design of a purpose-built headquarters featuring secure police operations — including an interview suite, evidence processing, and a sally port — as well as dedicated fire and EMS spaces with sleeping quarters, apparatus bays, and contamination control areas.

“This building truly supports how modern first responders work,” outgoing Police Chief Stephen O’Brien said. “CBA understood our needs from day one and designed a facility that will serve Lenox for decades.”

Town officials emphasized the project’s long trajectory, beginning with early discussions in 2015 and culminating in unanimous voter approval in 2022. Incoming Police Chief Mark Smith praised the town’s long-term vision, noting that “Lenox built this facility with the future in mind — and that’s what makes it exceptional.”

Residents toured the new building during a recent open house, getting a rare behind-the-scenes look before departments transition into the space. For CBA, the completion of the Lenox Public Safety Complex represents a continued commitment to serving Western Mass. communities with thoughtful, functional, and forward-looking municipal design.