Securing the Future: Proactive Safety Planning for JWest
Security has always been a priority for community buildings and the future JWest campus is no different. Planning the security and safety systems for the campus began long before any semblance of a structure will be visible. In fact, it’s been underway since 2021 when 3Si Risk Strategies Inc. was hired to complete a risk assessment and provide recommendations for the buildings. And it was the events of October 7 and subsequent rise in antisemitism globally that reinforced how important early planning is for future proofing our buildings.
“3Si takes a proactive approach to security and our initial assessments included contingency circumstances. Post October 7th, we didn’t change our approach but are making sure we can respond to increased demand as needed and then return to status quo,” says Scott Raesler, president of 3Si.
The intent of a security plan is to ensure people feel safe and secure regardless of unforeseen global incidents. It is a balance of awareness, operational programs, appropriate technology, and incorporating effective security into the design development so that the community can feel welcome and at ease.
“The community needs places to gather, and people need to carry on with their lives as best as they can. Physically, it’s a safe place and we do our utmost to detect problems and to prevent them,” says Jonathan Weisman, president of the JCC.
Weisman explains that security has been part of design considerations from the beginning. In the new JCC, it will be simpler to see who is coming in and out of the building and there will be a designated security office at the front door.
“We are designing a building that is easier to operate in every way. We are going to investigate everything from entrances and exits to how we divide interior space- there’s no question what will be on our minds in terms of where everything is placed such as lines of sight and access,” he says.
One integral piece is to have a community policing centre (CPC) be part of the JCC. The current Kerrisdale Oakridge Marpole Community Policing Centre (CPC) will move into the JCC when it opens and have an office near the front door. A CPC not only offers a means for neighbouring residents to obtain help and advice on policing matters, but a neighbourhood police officer and CPC staff and volunteers are on site and available to assist.
“Where we are currently located in Kerrisdale, we regularly have officers visiting. What does it mean for the building? People know police are here, they are part of the community and a friendly face,” says Paul Jordan, interim executive director of the Kerrisdale Oakridge Marpole CPC.
Kenneth Gisborne, Trusted Advisor and Senior Consultant for 3Si explains, “It’s important to incorporate security mitigation measures into the architectural design first and then supplement that passive security with appropriate integrated security systems (video surveillance, access control, etc.). These structural and equipment aspects of the facility are then supported by an appropriate operational security program (including security guards).”
“Our task is to create an environment that is secure and gives people a sense of ownership in their own site. The investment in the environment is realized when the community becomes an active participant in safety and security. They are encouraged to be observant, and to communicate when they see something or someone that is out of the ordinary for the area. Security isn’t someone else’s responsibility. It’s everybody’s responsibility,” he adds.
JWest is being designed not just for the needs of the community today, but to be flexible to meet the needs of the next generations. From security to environmental sustainability to creating buildings that can expand, this campus will be able to grow and respond to a future we can only imagine.