Florida Public Safety Institute
In this section:In 1968, the Lewis M. Lively Area Vocational-Technical Center in Tallahassee started training law enforcement officers. The first basic training class began on October 1, 1968, with just one full-time staff member and a 200-hour course.
By 1976, with support from the Governor’s Office, local leaders, and others, land in Gadsden County was leased for 99 years to build a regional training center. Construction of the first Administration Building started that year. Over time, the site added more training spaces, housing, a cafeteria, a lake, and other features.
In 1996, the center was renamed the Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy (PTLEA) to honor Senator Pat Thomas.
On July 1, 1999, ownership of PTLEA moved from Lively Vo-Tech to Tallahassee State College (TSC). In 2002, TSC suggested that the state save money by moving all law enforcement training to PTLEA. Each agency would still run its own training, but sharing space and tools would help everyone. In 2007, the Tallahassee Fire Academy (TFA) opened on-site to train new firefighters.
Beginnings of the Florida Public Safety Institute
In 2009, TSC renamed the growing site the Florida Public Safety Institute (FPSI). This name includes PTLEA and other programs, showing the wide range of safety and training services offered there. FPSI now covers nearly 1,500 acres in Gadsden County.
Environmental Stewardship
The Florida Public Safety Institute ethic embodies responsible planning and management of environmental resources.
Forest Management
FPSI works with experts to care for its land. They manage forests, wildlife, future building plans, and land around the property. Timber is harvested carefully to earn money while protecting nature.
Green Lodging
The housing facility at FPSI has 200 rooms for people in training. It earned the Florida Green Lodging label for reducing waste and protecting resources.
Lead Management on Shoot Ranges
FPSI takes care to manage lead from bullets. It studies water, soil, and land patterns to avoid harm. Three test ponds are used to monitor lead. Some ranges now use non-toxic ammo only, to protect the environment.
Contact Us
Florida Public Safety Institute
75 College Drive, Suite 203, Havana, FL 32333
Phone: (850) 201-7000 | Fax: (850) 201-7013
Dining Hall: (850) 201-7057
FPSI Store: (850) 201-7017