Washington Parish Unveils New 911 Dispatch Center
Published 9:11 am Wednesday, June 11, 2025
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After years of delays, the state-of-the-art facility officially opens to enhance emergency response across the parish
CARIE EDWARDS
CORRESPONDENT TO THE DAILY NEWS
On Saturday, June 7, Washington Parish celebrated the grand opening of its new 911 Dispatch Center, a long-awaited facility designed to enhance emergency communications and response across the parish. The center is located at 54100 Dollar Road, strategically positioned between Franklinton and Bogalusa to better serve both communities.
The ceremony drew a large crowd of about sixty attendees, including Washington Parish Sheriff Jason Smith, Franklinton Mayor Darwin Sharp, Senator Beth Mizell, State Representative John Wyble, Parish President Ryan Seal, Bogalusa Police Chief James “Smitty” Smith, representatives from Motorola and Gage Solutions, members of volunteer fire districts, the 911 Communications District Board, and many local residents.
The building itself has a notable history. Originally constructed over ten years ago in 2013, the center faced numerous setbacks that delayed its intended use. After a decade it is finally fully operational and fulfilling its role in public safety.
During the event Sheriff Smith presented framed copies of the very first call fielded at the new dispatch center-reporting a “noise in shed”-to Joanna Thomas and Jim Coleman. Both have been with the department since the building’s construction and were recognized for their contributions to making the new center come to fruition. “Now after a decade, they are here to see that vision become a reality, and are still here every day, working hard for the people of Washington Parish,” Sheriff Smith said.
Lieutenant Ashley Boudreaux was also honored for her role in the project. Promoted last year to supervisor of the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Operations, she served as the liaison between various agencies involved in the center’s move and ensured the facility met all technical requirements for effective operation.
Parish President Ryan Seal expressed his satisfaction with the new center, stating, “I’m glad it is open. Its state-of-the-art technology will benefit all of our citizens.”
The center’s opening represents a significant investment in public safety infrastructure, funded through local government resources and grants, and marks a major step forward in ensuring timely, effective emergency response for all parish residents.
