The Garland PD Property and Evidence Building, a project from the 2019 bond, was recently completed. The cost allowed in the bond for the facility was $17.7 million.
The new building has more than 18,000 square feet of space, which is almost twice as large as the former property and evidence building on Commerce Drive. Located at 2309 Forest Lane, two blocks west of the police department, it will improve working conditions and provide security for the staff.
The facility includes the features necessary to meet new storage and handling standards. It provides climate-controlled storage, and the warehouse is designed to allow staff to know everything that is stored and where it’s located. In addition, the hardened vault is designed to add an extra layer of protection to preserve evidence and property.
The design is forward focused to allow for growth and includes future expansion opportunities. In addition, numerous windows provide the building with lots of natural light for the technician workspaces. There is also an outdoor space where the staff can have lunch or take a break.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held in January 2021 and at that time, City Manager Bryan Bradford said that the property and evidence building was a “critical part of being able to provide citizens with the utmost in police services and security.”
Mayor Scott LeMay made it clear that this facility was not just a “want or need” of the police department. He said that GPD had to have this new evidence building because of required changes on how evidence must be stored.
LeMay also said that this new facility is another example of the support of the police department by Garland voters. He acknowledged that it was a lot to ask for and the voters did not question the need.