A new server building will be the central communications hub for Garrison Petawawa and ensure this growing base can provide crucial backup for military units across Ontario.
The current server building was constructed in 1957 as a telephone exchange. The $13.4-million contract to build its replacement was awarded in December 2022.
Over the last 10 years, the number of system and account users on the base has grown by nearly 3,000 to a total of 8,000. The current facility does not have the space for the information technology (IT) and telephone equipment required to accommodate this growth or meet the evolving IT and telephone system requirements.
“The Client-Partner is very excited,” said Colby Smith, Coordinator, Construction Services, at Garrison Petawawa. “It’s a quantum leap, moving from a building built in 1957 to a new modern facility.”
The server building will include 20 offices and workstations, two workshops, two equipment repair and staging areas, a communications room, and telephone and server equipment. Exterior improvements include a paved parking lot, a new security fence and a generator.
Garrison Petawawa is an area support unit, meaning that it acts as a base of operations for 4 Canadian Division in times of military and civilian emergency. The building will make it possible for Garrison personnel to provide effective 24/7 IT and telecommunications support to units and civilian colleagues stationed not only in Petawawa but also throughout the province.
Construction on the new server building is expected to be substantially complete in August 2024.
