For decades, the Borough of Somerville used a former industrial building to house its police department and council chambers. With significant residential construction taking place in town, the Borough struck a deal with one of the developers to utilize a portion of one of their buildings for a new civic center. Rather than relying on the developer’s architect, Somerville turned to SSP to provide architectural and interior design services for this newfound space.

The new 4,000 square foot civic center provides much-needed space for Borough Council and municipal board meetings, with its primary space being a common room capable to hold meetings with up to 80 public or audience members; a far cry from the previous overcrowded room that frequently saw attendees spilling out into the hallways. SSP worked closely with the Borough administration to utilize the space within the confines provided by the developer, including strategically modifying the floor levels to accommodate the structural constraints surrounding the space.

Mayor Sullivan remarked, “This is a big step for our town. I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome and the process.”

Features of the new space include a state-of-the-art audio and visual system with large screens, wi-fi capabilities, and a raised permanent dais. It will be available for municipal meetings as well as community groups.