Phoenix is looking to buy property to build a new police precinct, using money from voter-approved general obligation bonds.
In the $500 million package, approved by voters last November, $37.3 million is slated for the Cactus Park Precinct in northwest Phoenix. The current station at 39th Avenue and Cactus Road is small and outdated, built before women were allowed on the force.
For two years, resident Stan Bates has been pushing city leaders for a better precinct. During Wednesday’s council meeting, he described touring the precinct and said the biggest issue was the women’s restrooms.
“They were atrocious to say the least. They had maybe a third of the showers they needed and locker room facilities. They were crammed together like you wouldn’t believe,” he said.
The City Council approved acquiring 12.5-acre on the southeast corner of 31st Avenue and Thunderbird Road. It’s the site of a former Fry’s Electronics store, which closed in 2021. Phoenix will enter negotiations with the property owner to purchase at the city’s appraised value or a settlement amount reached during mediation, or by the power of eminent domain.
“We’re excited to show the men and women of the Phoenix Police Department that we do value them,” said Councilwoman Ann O’Brien who represents the district.
The Cactus Park precinct is expected to cover about 8 acres with the remaining four potentially being used for a future fire station.
Other police projects to be funded through bonds include renovating the Maryvale precinct and the property management warehouse.
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