News Summary
El Centro is nearing the finish line for its new Police Department headquarters, nearly 90% complete and expected to open in December. Funded by Measure P, this $49.6 million facility aims to improve public safety, featuring advanced crime response tools and community spaces. Despite minor delays, city officials assure uninterrupted police services during construction. Enhancements include modern audio-visual systems and a multipurpose community room. Street improvements will also streamline access to the headquarters as part of this significant investment in local law enforcement.
El Centro Approaching Completion of New Police Headquarters Set to Open in December 2023
The city of El Centro is nearing the completion of its new Police Department headquarters, which is currently 90% finished and is scheduled to officially open in December 2023. This project, initially planned for a fall opening in October, has experienced a slight delay, with the overall timeline extended from a planned completion in March 2026 to April 2026.
Funding and Significance of the Project
The new $49.6 million facility is primarily financed through Measure P, a voter-approved half-cent sales tax dedicated to public safety and infrastructure improvements. Considered one of the most significant investments in the city’s public safety infrastructure in recent years, the project aims to enhance law enforcement facilities and community services.
Current Progress and Focus Areas
According to Public Works Director and City Engineer Abraham Campos, the project is focused on completing interior finishes, site improvements, and communication systems. Despite minor operational challenges encountered during construction, city officials confirm that emergency and police services have continued without interruption. The project required close coordination between city staff and contractors to adhere to the scope and schedule.
Project Expenses and Strategic Upgrades
To date, 15 change orders totaling approximately $2.57 million have been approved by the City Council. Additionally, an extra $2.5 million has been allocated for various enhancements designed to improve the building’s functionality and long-term savings. These upgrades include shaded parking, advanced audio/visual systems, and improved signage.
Features of the New Headquarters
The new headquarters is being designed with multiple features to improve police operations and community engagement. It will include a dedicated property retrieval area, specialized interview rooms for victims, a Real Time Crime Center, and a Drones as First Responders program, supporting modern policing methods. The facility will also feature a 2,146-square-foot multipurpose community room capable of holding up to 150 individuals, facilitating community events and meetings.
Street Improvements and Accessibility Changes
Alongside the new police building, nearby street modifications are planned. These include repaving Main Street and narrowing 11th Street to a one-way northbound road. Access to the headquarters will primarily be from the south side of the building, off Main Street, to streamline traffic flow and improve public and employee access.
Community and Future Impact
Acting Police Chief Kelly Brown expressed gratitude to the community for their ongoing support, emphasizing that Measure P played a critical role in making the project possible. Designed to serve El Centro for the next 75 years, the new headquarters reflects years of planning and effort aimed at strengthening public safety and serving residents effectively.
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Additional Resources
- Calexico Chronicle: Construction of New ECPD Headquarters Nears Finish Line
- IV Press: New ECPD Station a Long Time Coming, Set for December Opening
- Fox 5 San Diego: Bodycam Video Shows Fatal Police Shooting of Unarmed 22-Year-Old Man in El Centro
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police
- Newspaper Archive: Historical News Articles
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