FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Town of Ashland to Conduct Ribbon Cutting at New Public Safety Building, Host Open House,
and Hold DEI Event
ASHLAND, June 5, 2023 — The Town of Ashland is pleased to announce a series of events in
celebration of the completion of the new Public Safety Building. These events will include a
ribbon-cutting ceremony, an open house, and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force’s
first event. The public is invited to participate in the open house and DEI event, while the
dedication ceremony is an invite-only occasion.
The construction of the Ashland Public Safety Building has been a much-needed project since
the 1980s. Extensive efforts were made to determine the facilities and technology requirements
for the Ashland Police and Fire Departments. In 2017, the Town contracted with HKT Architects
to conduct a comprehensive feasibility and site location study, which led to the identification of
the Union Street site. After spending four years securing the land and the funding necessary for
the project, construction began in the Spring of 2021.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, scheduled for Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 12:00 pm, will include
the rededication of the police and fire memorials. Distinguished past and current chiefs of police
and fire will share their insights, and the event will be attended by local and state elected
officials. This solemn occasion will commemorate the contributions of our first responders and
honor their commitment to public safety.
The open house will provide an opportunity for the community to explore the new Public Safety
Building, interact with the advanced equipment, and meet their local police officers and
firefighters. The open house will take place on Saturday, June 10, 2023, from 9:00 am to 12:00
pm. Due to limited parking availability at the Public Safety Building, attendees are encouraged to
park at the Ashland High School, located at 65 E Union St, Ashland MA, and shuttle service will
be provided.
In alignment with the Town’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the Ashland
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force is hosting the first in a series of public forums titled
“Public Safety.” This event will be held at the Ashland Public Safety Building, located at 12
Union St, on Sunday, June 11, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Chief Robie and Chief Rossi,
along with members of the Ashland Fire and Police Departments, will participate in a moderated
conversation to discuss how public safety can collaborate with all residents to foster a safe and
welcoming community. Attendees, especially those from marginalized communities, are
encouraged to actively engage in this dialogue and help shape the future of public safety in
Ashland. To RSVP and submit questions in advance, please email
deitaskforce@ashlandmass.com.
Joe Magnani, Chair of the Public Safety Building Committee, expressed his gratitude for the
successful completion of this long-awaited project, saying, “We are thrilled to see the new Public
Safety Building become a reality after years of planning and dedication. This achievement is a
testament to the hard work and collaboration of the entire committee, as well as the support from
the Ashland community.”
Assistant Town Manager Jennifer Ball expressed her enthusiasm for these events, stating, “The
completion of the new Public Safety Building is a significant milestone for Ashland. We are
proud to dedicate this modern facility and invite the community to participate in the open house
and DEI event. These events underscore our commitment to collaboration, inclusivity, and
ensuring the safety and well-being of all our residents.”
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Michael Herbert
Town Manager
The Town of Ashland
508-881-0100 x7911
mherbert@ashlandmass.com
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