David M. Rohrer Aviation Center, Fairfax County Police

Remodeling the Fairfax County Police Force’s Crimefighting and Emergency Medical Treatment Facility

Helicopter apron and hangars allow for efficient loading and unloading.

Two helicopter bays are incorporated into the facility.

Each helicopter bay stores one twin-engine helicopter, including all maintenance gear.

A publicly accessible classroom is present to host community forums.

Workspaces are spread across the facility for all medical personnel and officers to utilize.

Living amenities are included for on-site workers to accompany overnight shifts.

The building itself spans 16,000 square feet of property.

The facility completes over 150 helicopter missions per month and more than 80 medical evacuations per year.

Client: Fairfax County
Owner: The Department of Public Works and Environmental Services
Location: Fairfax County, VA
Services: Engineering, Architecture
Markets: Community Facilities

Square Footage: 16,000 SF
Certification: LEED Silver
Cost: $10 million
Completed: 2022
Region: Mid-Atlantic

Originally built in 1984 and named after the former deputy county executive for public safety, the David M. Rohrer Aviation Center serves as the Fairfax County Police Department’s central heliport, crimefighting, and emergency medical facility. Known by the callsign “Fairfax 1,” the facility completes over 150 helicopter missions per month and more than 80 medical evacuations per year. Our team served as lead architect and engineer for the demolishing and remodeling of the new building, allowing for the installation of up-to-date technology and support for current and future amenities.

The newly built facility allows for better storage of the county’s two twin-engine helicopters, medical personnel and supplies, police officers, and pilots. Of the 23,000 square feet of land, the project includes a 16,000-square-foot main building, helipad, and 25-vehicle parking lot. The base serves a 24/7 mission of specialized staff and crew, including flight officers, pilots, paramedics, and maintenance crews.

Amenities inside the building include office space, ready room, kitchen, storage space, equipment and personal locker rooms, classroom, medical training room, and two helicopter bays. An additional meeting room was designed into the building to provide public access while remaining separate from the secure functions of the facility.

helicopter bay hangers

vehicle parking lot

24/7

operations