Atlanta's massive public safety training facility at center of 'Cop City' protests prepares to open

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum looks out at the public safety training center's mock city on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024, where officers will practice responding to emergencies at a convenience store, two-story house, apartment and commercial-style building. (Chamian Cruz/WABE)

Atlanta’s new public safety training center that’s been the subject of protests for years is finally built, and officials must now find a way to balance security with community building.

A first look at the 85-acre, now-$115 million complex in the South River Forest in unincorporated DeKalb County featured walking trails, dog kennels, classrooms, a six-story burn building and even a barn near the front entrance that will house 11 horses.

The training center will be used by Atlanta’s police, firefighters and emergency dispatchers.