UNC Pembroke will soon be home to a state-of-the-art Campus Security and Regional Emergency (CSRE) Operations Center, thanks to a $5 million appropriation from the N.C. General Assembly. The investment brings the total state funding for the project to $9.5 million, strengthening UNCP’s role as a regional hub for safety, training and disaster response.

The funding, sponsored in part by former state Rep. Jarrod Lowery (District 47), will support the renovation of the university’s Auxiliary Services Building, transforming it into a secure and modern facility that will house the university’s Police and Public Safety Department and serve as a regional emergency operations center.

“Living through Hurricanes Matthew and Florence and seeing the devastation they caused in our community highlighted the need for this center,” said Lowery in a press release. “It will allow UNC Pembroke to serve as a hub for volunteers, supplies and training — another tool to help people if we face another natural disaster.”

Originally allocated $4.5 million in 2021, the project required additional funding due to inflation and increased construction costs. The new appropriation ensures the renovation can move forward without compromise.

Gabe Eszterhas, vice chancellor for Finance and Administration, said the project will address two key needs: modernizing campus police facilities and expanding the university’s capacity to coordinate emergency responses across southeastern North Carolina.

“Our police department has outgrown its space,” Eszterhas said in a press release. “This project adds about 6,000 square feet, bringing our operations up to modern standards. The emergency operations center will allow us to host local and state agencies, with the technology and infrastructure needed for coordination and communication during major events.”

The renovated facility will serve as a dual-use site, serving both as a training ground for campus police and the university’s internal emergency operations personnel and as a regional hub during times of disaster. UNCP has previously hosted the National Guard, FEMA, FBI and search and rescue teams during hurricanes.

Design is underway and the project may be ready to start construction in approximately 16 months.

“This project is about building resilience for the future,” Eszterhas said. “We hope we never face another disaster like Florence or Helene, but if we do, this facility ensures we’ll be ready.”

Rep. Lowery said it was a collaborative effort that made the project possible, highlighting the advocacy of Sen. Danny Britt, Rep. Brenden Jones and Sen. Bill Rabon.

Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings expressed gratitude to state leaders and affirmed that the project aligns with UNCP’s mission.

“We are deeply grateful to Representative Jarrod Lowery for his advocacy and leadership, and to our region’s leaders, Senator Danny Britt, Representative Brenden Jones, and Senator Bill Rabon, for their ongoing support,” Cummings said. “The Campus Security and Regional Emergency Operations Center will provide a vital hub for training, coordination and collaboration, enhancing the safety, resilience and preparedness of our communities.”