Wold Architects and Engineers, a national architecture and engineering firm with extensive government design expertise and a local office in Denver, recently began the construction of a new, cutting-edge law enforcement training center (LETC) for Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). This vital facility, located at CPW’s Denver headquarters, will enhance the training capabilities of the state’s primary agency dedicated to preserving natural resources and maintaining state parks.
The new LETC will provide a dedicated environment for CPW’s law enforcement personnel with a space for training exercises, staff development and more. By transforming a former shop building constructed in the 1950s, Wold expanded and modernized the original facility into a new, flexible 16,500-square-foot space. This innovative facility is poised to adapt to the evolving needs of CPW’s law enforcement team for years to come.
“Our organization seeks to protect Colorado’s stunning landscapes by caring for state parks and natural resources while serving the communities to whom these essential spaces mean so much,” said Kevin Becker, CPW Facilities project manager. “This new facility will be instrumental in equipping our Parks and Wildlife officers with the training to enhance the skills they need to effectively safeguard these spaces and enhance our training efforts, and we’re grateful to Wold for their investment and design supporting in our mission.”
The new LETC will not only provide much-needed office space but also feature state-of-the-art facilities designed to optimize the training experience. CPW trains over 20 new law enforcement officers annually, ensuring they meet Peace Officer’s Standards and Training (POST) certification requirements. The future-oriented facility is designed to be an LEED Gold-certified adaptive reuse project, which embraces the site’s historical significance while supporting sustainable practices. The campus-wide aesthetic of exposed wood structure also remains a staple of the LETC’s design to reflect the importance of sustaining nature within the built environment.
“We are excited to contribute to the preservation of Colorado’s heritage by designing this vital training facility for Colorado Parks and Wildlife,” said Aimee LaLone, AIA, associate at Wold Architects and Engineers. “This facility will serve as a cornerstone for effective law enforcement training, ensuring those who protect our natural beauty are well-equipped for their important work. As a local firm, we take immense pride in creating spaces that positively impact our community.”
Construction on the new LETC began in late summer and will proceed in phases over the coming months, with an anticipated completion date in the summer of 2025.
