Designed to engage the public in discussions about architecture, the People’s Choice competition is held annually by AIA Florida and the Florida Foundation for Architecture. The competition has generated more than 12 million votes since its inception in 2012. 

Voting starts June 16
Voting is open to the public and begins at noon Eastern on Friday, June 16, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Eastern on Friday, July 28. Vote at FloridaPeoplesChoice.org. 

Voters will have a choice of 28 buildings from across the state that are dedicated to public safety. The Public Safety Training Center, which celebrates its 10^th anniversary this year, is the only college building in the competition and was previously nominated for this award in 2014. 

“This facility is an exceptionally sophisticated architectural design,” said Kirk Stetson, facilities planning manager at PBSC. “It includes an homage to 9/11 in the skewing of the entry walkway at 9? 11’, punctuated with blue walkway mini-lights signifying the ‘thin blue line’ of law enforcement. The open proximity to the PBSC Fire Academy Training area encourages cross-communication among fire, EMS and criminal justice students as they prepare to become emergency providers, fostering a fellowship of common effort.” 

All structures of the Public Safety Training Center were designed by Stephen Boruff, AIA, Architects + Planners, Inc. and constructed by Balfour Beatty, Inc. The facility’s driving range with skid pad was constructed by Fastrack MCI. 

“Through design, architects have the ability to create spaces to enhance the human experience while protecting the health, safety and welfare of our communities—tools essential to supporting first responders as they face the daily call to serve,” said AIA Florida President Beverly Frank, AIA, LEED AP. “As a vital part of the planning process, architects collaborate with key members to identify challenges, develop solutions and ensure our communities have tangible resources crucial to sustaining a thriving community.”