BKV Group: Bruce Schwartzman Compendium

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Congratulations, Bruce!

Dear Bruce,

Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! Your remarkable tenure as BKV Group’s Government Practice and Senior Partner has left an indelible mark on both the firm and the communities it serves. Your leadership, dedication, and expertise have been instrumental in shaping countless projects and positively impacting the lives of many. Your unwavering commitment to excellence has not only elevated the standards within the company but has also inspired those around you.

As you embark on this new chapter of your life, may it be filled with joy, relaxation, and countless new adventures. Your legacy at BKV Group will endure, and your presence will be greatly missed. Wishing you all the best in your well-earned retirement.

Warm regards,

Bruce: you lead by example, and so many of us have been fortunate to collaborate with you on projects of impact. You care about two things deeply, genuinely, passionately, and earnestly: the communities served by your projects, and the staff with whom you work. It is tremendous to see how you draw energy from engaging with others, and how that energy feeds back into creative design solutions. Thank you for setting and keeping the bar high.

The motorcycle is a blank canvas, and the ride, the brush stroke that paints one’s soul.” Bruce, when I saw this quote, I thought of you. Throughout your extraordinary career, you have had a host of canvases to work on: bond, vellum, mylar, and trace paper. Along the way, you traded your pencil for a pen and your pen for a keyboard to create wonderful projects that have enriched a lot of people’s lives. Now you have a fresh new canvas to paint your exciting new journey on. Congratulations on your outstanding career and all the dreams, hopes, and endless possibilities that are ahead for you. I will miss working with you, but will smile knowing that you are having the time of your life. Safe journey, my friend!

“ “

“Bruce: You have provided a down-to-earth, grounded, confident and intelligent approach to restabilizing our Government practice, and creating the foundation for BKV to grow to the next great levels in the future. Over the past 14+ years, although viewing mostly from a distance, I have always appreciated your ability to connect with our clients on a professional and personal level, while displaying the leadership needed to propel our group. Fridley, for me, was our chance to work together, combining teamwork and effectiveness, to display our talents and deliver a dynamic project. I was able to see you work first-hand, and enjoyed every minute of that process. It went so well we even got street signs for us all! Thank you for all you have done for BKV; for bringing some humor and lightness to the practice when needed most, and for simply being a terrific Partner. Enjoy your retirement, you have earned it.

Mike Krych

Early on in my career at BKV Group, I had the pleasure of working with Bruce as a Marketing Assistant.

Even then, I knew that he would be a pain in my arse!

What I didn’t realize then, but certainly know now, is how much you’ve influenced my passion for what I do and my gratitude for all that I’ve learned from you. You and the rest of the Government team inspired me to focus solely on civic work, which is a major reason for my current position. I’ve truly enjoyed our collaboration and deepened understanding of civic architecture. Your expertise is evident, and you bring an infectious excitement to the work. As I contemplate your retirement, I think FINALLY… but honestly, I wonder if I’ve absorbed all the wisdom from a powerhouse like you. Thank you for your immense contributions to our team. You will be missed!

When Bruce came to BKV we needed to rebuild our government practice. There was a good portfolio of projects but Bruce’s leadership has dynamically expanded our design footprint. His team-building and mentorship in support of the other partners has now grown our government project impact nationally. His work is a wonderful legacy, and we all extend our sincere appreciation.

Jack Boarman

“Bruce, I’ve truly enjoyed working with you these past 14 years on so many terrific projects. What you’ve done with the Government Sector is astounding and your leadership has been critical in building the firm we enjoy today. Your friendship is important to me, also, and I’ll always laugh when I think of “Win a date with Bruce,” talking about taco trucks with that woman in Fargo, running your car down to empty, or all of the crappy hotels you and I have stayed in over the years. I know you’ll stay interesting, and I hope you’ll stay in touch!

Congratulations on your retirement!

The last 14 years working together have gone too fast and I will always be grateful for the support you have shown me over the years. I am thankful you convinced me to stick around all these years; it has been a pleasure working together. Wishing you great times and good health in your retirement!

In 2013, I made a major career transition coming to BKV to lead the DC government practice; having been with the same company for the previous 20 years. I’d like to thank Bruce for his mentorship through this process. While I was asked to do a lot in DC, Bruce bore the responsibility for leading the government practice nationally, which freed me to focus on the DC practice site. Bruce’s support was consistent throughout our ten years together, and helped us build a successful practice in this region. While Bruce’s physical presence in DC was minimal, his impact was felt daily while serving our many government clients. We will miss Bruce, and filling his shoes will be no small task. May your journey forward be full of grandpa memories and Harley adventures!

“Bruce, the legacy of beautiful projects, a strong national government team, and a long list of happy clients, is a testament to your leadership at BKV Group. The mark you have left on our practice and the firm is undeniable. I appreciate the time that we’ve had together, whether in the office or on long trips to projects, that has allowed me to understand the landscape that we practice in. Your friendship and advice along the way will not be forgotten. We hope you enjoy retirement, but don’t be a stranger. I’ll always welcome a cold drink at the end of a long day to catch up and hear about your newest adventures.

“Bruce, congratulations on your retirement, and thank you for all you have contributed to the BKV government practice!! Time has flown by, and I have enjoyed working with you on so many great civic projects. You are both professional and approachable, a great mentor and client advocate. When I think of you what I will remember most is your infectious smile and belly laugh, you always know how to have fun!! Continue the fun as you enjoy a well-deserved retirement!

As Bruce begins his well-deserved retirement, he leaves behind a rich legacy of client dedication, community impact, and team mentorship. His designs seamlessly integrate functionality, safety, and aesthetics, all while respecting budget constraints. Beyond architecture, Bruce championed community engagement, ensuring projects resonate with local values. He’s not just an architect; he’s a mentor who has inspired countless young professionals, fostering a love for public service architecture. I’ll miss our spirited discussions on justice, our firm, and our clients, along with our shared camaraderie, but I wish him the best in this new chapter of life as he “rides” to new adventures.

Project Legacy

Over the course of four decades, Bruce Schwartzman has left an indelible mark on city and county projects, particularly in the realm of law enforcement centers and public safety facilities. His leadership has played a pivotal role in advancing numerous public safety initiatives, showcasing meticulous oversight in critical areas such as scheduling, phasing, and stakeholder coordination. As a committed public safety planner, Bruce has remained attuned to emerging trends and methodologies, fostering seamless collaboration with clients and design teams to consistently deliver optimal solutions.

His steadfast commitment to clients has built enduring relationships and set a standard for exceptional service and trust. Beyond his professional achievements, Bruce’s influence extends deeply into the community, where his contributions have fostered positive change and inspired others to take action. Within the team, Bruce’s mentorship has nurtured growth, encouraged innovation, and empowered countless individuals to reach their full potential. His legacy is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and his profound impact on everyone he touched.

55th District Court, Ingham County Justice Center, Mason, MI • Aitkin County Government Center Study, Aitkin, MN • Albert Lea City-Wide Facilities Assessment & Master Plan, Albert Lea, MN • Albert Lea Public Works Renovation, Albert Lea, MN • Alpena County Sheriff’s Office and Jail, Alpena, MI • Bayfield County Security & Space Needs Study, Bayfield, WI • Becker Facilities Assessment, Becker, MN • Brookings County Detention Center, Brookings, SD • Brookings County Jail Study, Brookings, SD • Brookings County Jail, Brookings, SD • Bureau County Law Enforcement Center Princeton, IL • Caepe Private School, Phoenix, AZ* • Carlton County Justice System Implementation and Master Plan, Carlton, MN • Carroll County Public Safety Training Center, Phase II, Carroll County, MD* • Carrollton, Texas Fire Station Study, Carrollton, TX • Cloquet Facilities Assessment and Master Plan, Cloquet, MN • Codington County Courthouse Remodel and Justice Center Study & New Facility, Codington County, Watertown, SD • Coppell Texas Fire Station Study, Coppell, TX • Custer South Dakota Fire Station Study, Custer, SD • Dakota County Empire Campus Public Works, Dakota County, MN • Dakota County Medical / Mental Health Housing Unit Study, Hastings, MN • Dayton Fire Station, Dayton, MN • Detroit Lakes Police & City Hall Study, Detroit Lakes, MN • Detroit Lakes Police Station, Detroit Lakes, MN • Dilworth Pre-Design and Master Plan, Dilworth, MN • Emily City Hall & Police Department, Emily, MN • Excelsior City Hall Space Needs Study & Renovation, Excelsior, MN • Fillmore County Jail Addition, Preston, MN • Forest Lake Public Works and Municipal Facilities Master Plan, Forest Lake, MN • Fridley Civic Campus, Fridley, MN • Front Royal Police Department Study, Front Royal, VA • Fulda Fire Station Study, Fulda, MN • Golden Valley Civic Campus Master Plan, Golden Valley, MN • Grafton Fire Department Study for Fire Station, Grafton, ND • Hennepin County Southside Service Center, Minneapolis, MN • Hennepin County, Adult Correctional Facility Men’s Building Window Study, Minneapolis, MN • Hennepin County, Adult Correctional Facility • Women’s & Work Release Exterior Envelope Study, Minneapolis, MN • Howard Lake Feasibility Study, Howard Lake, MN • Hubbard County Courts Master Plan, Park Rapids, MN* • Ingham County Justice Complex, Mason, MI • Inver Grove Heights City Hall & Police Station, Inver Grove Heights, MN • Island Lake Needs Assessment, Island Lake, IL • Lake Elmo Municipal Space Needs Assessment, Lake Elmo, MN • Lake Zurich Fire Stations Master Plan, Lake Zurich, IL • Le Sueur County Courthouse, Le Center, MN • Le Sueur County Government Center, Le Center, MN • Le Sueur County Justice Center, Le Center, MN • Le Sueur County Public Works, Le Center, MN • Leech Lake Justice Center and Tribal Police, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Cass Lake, MN • Lincolnshire Riverwoods Fire Protection District Station #51 Study, Lincolnshire, IL • Little Canada Study for Fire Station Remodeling, Little Canada, MN • Lockport Facilities Condition Assessment, Lockport, IL • Mahnomen County Jail Planning, Mahnomen, MN • Mahtomedi City Hall and Fire Department Needs Assessment, Mahtomedi, MN • Maryland Correctional Institution • Minnetonka City Hall & Community Center, Minnetonka, MN • Minnetonka Community Facilities Space Needs and Programming Study, Minnetonka, MN • Minnetonka Ice Rink Concession Remodeling, Minnetonka, MN • Montgomery Public Safety Building, DGS Term Contract - District 6 Police Station, Gaithersburg, MD • Montgomery Public Safety Facility, Montgomery, MN • MSU/MCTC, Law Enforcement Training Facility, Center, MN • New Town Public Safety Feasibility Study, New Town, ND • Owatonna Arts Center - Entry Addition, Owatonna, MN • Owatonna Public Library, Owatonna, MN • Pennington County Courtroom, Thief River Falls, MN • Pennington County Courts and Government Center Space Needs Analysis and Facility Needs Planning, Thief River Falls, MN • Pennington County Study and Justice Center, Pennington County, Thief River Falls, MN • Plymouth City Hall and Public Safety Building, Plymouth, MN • Ramsey Fire Department Master Plan, Ramsey, MN • Ramsey Fire Station No. 2, Ramsey, MN • Ramsey Public Works Study, Ramsey, MN • Rochester Fire Department Station #2, Rochester, MN • Rochester North Police Station & Service Center, Rochester, MN • Rochester Police Station Study & Master Plan, Rochester, MN • Rochester Police Station Study & Master Plan, Rochester, MN • Rochester Public Safety & EOC Facility, Rochester, MN • Roseville Civic Campus Master Plan, Roseville, MN • Scott/Carver Counties Consolidated PSAP Study, Shakopee, MN • Shakopee City Hall Study, Shakopee, MN • Shakopee New City Hall, Shakopee, MN • Springfield Fire Department Study, Springfield, OH • Springfield Four Fire Stations, Springfield MO • St. Cloud Police Headquarters, St. Cloud, MN • Stearns County Needs Assessment and Master Plan, St. Cloud, MN • Steger Village Hall and Police Department, Steger, IL • Three Affiliated Tribes Master Plan, White Shield, ND • Tioga City Hall, Tioga, ND • Wadena County Courthouse, Wadena, MN • Washburn County Government Center Master Plan, Shell Lake, WI • Washburn County Government Center Study, Shell Lake, WI • West Fargo City Hall and Police Station, West Fargo, ND • West St. Paul Facilities Needs Assessment, West St. Paul, MN • Winona County Jail Study, Winona, MN • Winona County Office Building, Winona, MN • Wright County / FBI Joint Tactical Training Facility, Buffalo, MN • Wright County Government Center and Courthouse, Buffalo, MN • Wright County Government Center Master Planning Study & Project, Buffalo, MN • Wright County Space Needs Study / Government Center, Buffalo, MN • Wyoming Public Safety Facility, Wyoming, MN • Wyoming Public Safety/Fire Station, Needs and Facility Assessment, Wyoming, MN • Wyoming Public Works, Wyoming, MN • Dilworth Fire Station, Dilworth, MN • Waconia New Fire Station, Waconia, MN • Pine County Jail Study, Pine County, MN • Olmsted County Government Center Justice Systems Remodeling, MN • Olmsted County Government Center Remodeling, MN • Olmsted County 2118 Bldg Remodel & New DNR Building, MN • St. Louis County Jail Study, Duluth, St. Louis County, MN • Scott County Jail Dayroom Remodeling, Shakopee, MN • St Croix County Dayroom Railing Improvements, St. Croix County, WI • St. Croix County Jail Intake Master Planning, St. Croix County, WI

FRIDLEY CIVIC CENTER

Fridley, Minnesota

AWARDS

2019 Firehouse Magazine Station Design Awards, Bronze Award, Mixed Use Category

2020 American Public Works Association (APWA) - MN Project of The Year

ROCHESTER NORTH SERVICE

CENTER & POLICE STATION

Rochester, Minnesota

AWARDS

Finance & Commerce Top Project of 2020
2021 Officer Magazine Law Enforcement Design Awards - Bronze in the Public Safety Centers Category

DETROIT LAKES POLICE STATION

Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

AWARDS

2021 Officer Magazine Law Enforcement Design Awards Facilities III - Silver

WRIGHT COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER

Buffalo, Minnesota

WRIGHT COUNTY JUSTICE CENTER

Buffalo, Minnesota

TRAINING FACILITY

Buffalo, Minnesota

FBI/WRIGHT COUNTY JOINT TACTICAL

LE SUEUR COUNTY JUSTICE CENTER

Le Center, Minnesota

AWARDS

2020 Officer Magazine Law Enforcement Design Awards, Gold Public Safety Centers Award

BROOKINGS COUNTY DETENTION CENTER

Brookings, South Dakota

AITKIN COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER

Aitkin, Minnesota

DAKOTA COUNTY EMPIRE

CAMPUS BUILDING

Farmington, Minnesota

ROCHESTER FIRE STATION #2

Rochester, Minnesota

AWARDS

2015 FIERO Fire Station Design Awards Honor Award; 2015 Firehouse Station Design Awards; ENR Midwest Best of 2015 – Public/Government Projects Gold

RAMSEY FIRE STATION NO. 2

Ramsey, Minnesota

ELK RIVER FIRE STATION #3

Elk River, Minnesota

SHAKOPEE CITY HALL

Shakopee, Minnesota

PENNINGTON COUNTY JUSTICE CENTER

Thief River Falls, Minnesota

ROSEMOUNT

POLICE STATION & PUBLIC WORKS

Rosemount, Minnesota

WACONIA NEW FIRE STATION

Waconia, Minnesota

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