Range Project

Range Project

The Regional Firearms Training Facility (RFTC) is a collaborative effort between the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, the San Diego County District Attorney's Office (D.A.), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (F.B.I.). Through the use of funds provided by each agency, donated labor services by the military, private contributors such as the Honorary Deputy Sheriff's Association and private architects, the concept of the RFTC was established. Phase I of construction began in the Spring of 1996.

The RFTC currently consists of five outdoor pistol and rifle ranges which were completed in August 1997. Some of the unique features of the facility include computerized targets which can be moved at varying speeds, elevated observation towers for better viewing advantage, and a 200 yard rifle range. The rifle range is the only law enforcement type facility in San Diego County and is of significant benefit to local agencies for training. The entire facility is used by all local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Regional Firearms Training Facility

Phase II of the RFTC will be the construction of a 22,000 square foot administration/classroom facility. It will include administrative offices for Sheriff, District Attorney, and F.B.I. staff. The facility will have (5) classrooms, a 368 seat auditorium, kitchen, and shower/lockeroom areas. The auditorium can also be converted to a classroom or theater configuration. The training opportunities will include classroom instruction, tele-conferencing, and firearms simulator training (F.A.T.S.) utilizing the latest technology in video and computerized equipment.

Once again through the collaborative effort of the Sheriff's Department, D.A., F.B.I., donated services and funds, and equipment from the military, this phase of construction is scheduled to begin this summer pending approval from the Board of Supervisors. Completion of Phase II is expected by the summer of 2000.

Phase III will be the construction of two additional training buildings. It will include a live fire facility which will allow officers to utilize real weapons and ammunition against computerized props and targets. It will also provide an observation platform for viewing and have videotape capability.

The other building will be a 'Simunitions' type training building in which officers will train together using specialized firearms and protective equipment (i.e. paint gun ammunition). It will also be adaptable to various training scenarios such as hostage situations, building searches, and other types of crimes in progress. This building will also have videotape capability. Phase III is scheduled for completion by the summer of 2002.

When finished, the RFTC will provide a complete and unique training facility unparalleled in our region. We expect that it will be used by law enforcement agencies from all local and nearby jurisdictions.