Video Update: Public Safety Investments Check-in

In today's video update, Mayor Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Carmichael provide an update on the new public safety investments, including the new public safety headquarters. At its January 25 meeting, the City Council approved appropriating proceeds from the recently approved public safety bonds (https://bton.in/OBxjM) for public safety facility improvements, including the purchase of 320 W. 8th Street, a section of the Showers Building adjacent to City Hall.  

This purchase allows the City to relocate the Bloomington Police Department (BPD) and Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) administration offices into a unified Public Safety component as part of City Hall. The new location will provide new and much-improved facilities to employees of BFD and BPD, important opportunities to collaborate among the various public safety components, enhanced collaboration with other City Hall departments, opportunities for future expansion, and greater ease for the public when engaging with public safety-related questions or issues.

In addition to appropriating funds to purchase the CFC Showers Building, the Council approved funds for rebuilding Fire Station #1 (E 4th St), remodeling Fire Station #3 (Woodlawn Ave), and constructing a new Fire Department training/logistics center and storage facility. The major remodel of Fire Station #1, estimated at $5.5 million, will bring the building up to current standards, remove the basement, avoid complications of mold remediation, fix known issues, and provide energy efficiency updates. The new layout also follows best practices for inclusive space by removing group sleeping areas, showers, and restrooms.

A major renovation, estimated at $2.5 million, of Fire Station #3 will similarly bring the building up to current standards and follow best practices for inclusion. The remaining $2.5 million investment will construct a much-needed permanent Fire Department training/logistics center and storage facility. 

Each week, Mayor Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Carmichael provide video updates on recent news and key initiatives. Access all of the weekly video updates at bloomington.in.gov/videoupdates.

Click here for a transcript of today's video.