Lafayette Police Department – Defensive Tactics Training Center

While serving as a principal at Architects Beazley Moliere, Adam Beazley assumed the role of Architect of Record and lead designer for a significant project undertaken for the Lafayette Police Department. Tasked with revitalizing a dilapidated pre-engineered metal building, the objective was to create a new Defensive Tactics Training Center, specifically designed for hand-to-hand combat training and firearm simulation exercises.

To achieve this vision, a thorough survey of the existing building was conducted, identifying elements that could be reused effectively. The building underwent a complete transformation, with the existing structure stripped down to the metal frame. A harmonious combination of cladding materials, including brick, corrugated metal paneling, and fiber-reinforced concrete panels, was thoughtfully incorporated to enhance the building’s exterior.

Internally, the facility’s design catered to the needs of the police department, featuring a dojo area with rubber flooring, functional office spaces, a dedicated firearms simulator room, male and female showers, locker and dressing rooms, and an educational classroom.

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, the front portion of the building encompassed approximately 200 square feet of new wood frame construction. Sloped concrete entrances were strategically incorporated from two directions, ensuring proper wheelchair accessibility from the front parking area and precinct 4 located across the parking lot.

The successful completion of this transformative project, achieved at a total cost of $730,000, has resulted in the Lafayette Police Department obtaining a state-of-the-art training center. The Defensive Tactics Training Center now serves not only the entire Lafayette police force but also neighboring law enforcement agencies, empowering them with enhanced training facilities to better serve and protect the community.