Federal Protective Service – New York, NY

Federal Protective Service – Region 2 Headquarters

Securing Federal Facilities

The Federal Protective Service (FPS), a component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, operates its Region 2 Headquarters within the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building at 26 Federal Plaza. This federal law enforcement agency is uniquely tasked with the protection of federal facilities, their occupants, and visitors. Region 2 oversees security operations across New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The agency employs uniformed Law Enforcement Officers and Criminal Investigators, as well as managing contract Protective Security Officers (PSOs) who staff the screening checkpoints at federal buildings. The FPS mission focuses on preventing, protecting against, and responding to threats and crimes within the federal domain.

Law Enforcement and Operational Roles

From its base at 26 Federal Plaza, the FPS coordinates comprehensive security assessments for government buildings to identify vulnerabilities and implement safety measures. The agency investigates crimes that occur on federal property, ranging from property damage to threats against federal employees. The FPS also operates MegaCenters, which are 24/7 dispatch and monitoring hubs for alarm systems and emergency communications. While the Region 2 office is primarily an administrative and command center, it serves as the strategic heart for federal building security in New York City. Visitors to the Javits Building interact with FPS-managed security immediately upon entry, undergoing rigorous screening. The office at Federal Plaza coordinates these efforts to ensure the continuity of government operations.

Key Services and Functions

• Facility Security Assessments: Evaluates risks and countermeasures for federal buildings.
• Criminal Investigations: Investigates offenses and threats occurring on federal property.
• Protective Operations: Manages the deployment of Protective Security Officers (PSOs).
• Hazardous Response: Responds to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats.
• MegaCenter Operations: Provides 24/7 alarm monitoring and dispatch services.