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March 23, 2026 system reliability while preventing costly maintenance backups and improving overall water quality for residents. The project further enhances neighborhood livability and property values by implementing "Complete Streets" elements, such as ADA-compliant curb ramps, energy-efficient LED street lighting, and traffic-calming measures that prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety. This surface transformation is supported by advanced green infrastructure and enhanced stormwater management systems, creating a resilient urban environment capable of fostering new economic opportunities. Safe, Connected, and Thriving Community We are strengthening public confidence by integrating modern crime-prevention technology with deep-rooted community partnerships that stop crime before it starts. This commitment to excellence is visible in our neighborhoods, where well-maintained parks and beautiful streetscapes create a welcoming environment for all. By fostering shared ownership among citizens, police, and community ambassadors, we ensure that public safety and city pride are collective achievements we can all experience. Director of Public Safety The Director of Public Safety is a high-level executive who provides strategic leadership and administrative oversight for a jurisdiction’s safety services. Serving as the vital link between the City Manager and departments such as Police, Fire, EMS, and Emergency Management, this role ensures a unified and cohesive response to community threats and disasters. By coordinating these diverse operational branches, the Director maintains a synchronized approach to public safety and emergency preparedness. Cradock Fire Station Based on the Fire Station Location Study, Portsmouth is relocating four aging fire stations—Cradock, Victory Blvd, Hodges Ferry, and Winchester—to more central locations to modernize infrastructure and optimize emergency response. While the city’s current count of eight stations remains sufficient, these strategic moves will expand coverage for Truxton, Highland Biltmore, and Douglas Park while maintaining existing service standards for Cradock, West Cradock, and Prentis Park. A key component of this initiative is the new Cradock Fire Station, which is positioned on a main thoroughfare with an efficient layout designed to reduce response times and boost public safety. This modernized infrastructure accelerates emergency deployments and incorporates specialized systems to minimize toxin exposure, protecting the long-term health of the workforce. Expansion of Law Enforcement Technology This budget is proposing an expansion of its contract to integrate advanced technologies like drones, AI-powered detection, and long-range radar into its public safety infrastructure. These tools, including the Axon Fusus real-time intelligence platform, are designed to improve situational awareness, response times, and officer safety during critical incidents. Ultimately, this investment aligns with the city's strategic goals to modernize emergency management and maintain a state-of-the-art public safety network. Education, Workforce, & Partnerships for the Future Portsmouth is forging a united front for lifelong success through a high-impact partnership between the City, our public schools, and community leaders. By aligning investments and establishing quarterly collaborations between the City and School Board, we ensure that every resource is strategically directed toward student achievement. Furthermore, by bridging the gap between education and economic opportunity through maritime and technical career pipelines, we are equipping our residents to lead the workforce of the future and securing Portsmouth’s long-term prosperity.