Polson, MT Police, Fire & Municipal Court Space Needs Study

Nestled on the southern edge of Flathead Lake, Montana’s largest natural freshwater lake, Polson beckons visitors with its enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. The city serves as the county seat of Lake County and lies within the boundaries of the Flathead Indian Reservation, offering a tapestry of diverse experiences.

As a gateway to Flathead Lake, Polson is a haven for water enthusiasts. The pristine waters of the lake invite visitors to embark on exhilarating boating excursions, cast their lines for an abundance of fish species, or simply bask in the serenity of its expansive shores. The surrounding landscapes also unveil a myriad of outdoor pursuits, including hiking and biking amidst the verdant foothills of the Mission Mountains or gliding across snow-kissed slopes in the winter months.

Polson’s city hall includes the fire department, police department and municipal court. All of these services were housed in an older structure that had served as a private home and for commercial and retail entities. The facility has been renovated numerous times over the years. Security was a prime concern as the elected officials held meetings in the same space used for the municipal court. All glass in the facility was standard residential glass with no security glazing. 

The fire station had low ceilings and mandated that fire apparatus had to back in, there was no opportunity for a pull-through space as the space immediately behind the facility were buildings housing a restaurant and commercial space. The facility could not expand nor was increasing its height an option as the facility was never designed for additional floors. CPS was retained to conduct a 
space needs study to examine all of these elements.