ThePort Washington Police Districtmarked a major step toward modernizing its operations with a ceremonial groundbreaking for a new headquarters on Main Street, on Monday, April 27.
The facility, to be built at 128 Main St., will replace the district’s current headquarters, which was constructed in 1958 and no longer meets the needs of a growing police force or contemporary law enforcement standards.
Officials described the project as a long-awaited investment in public safety and community service, following decades of planning and evaluation.
“This represents years of planning, careful financial stewardship, and a commitment to doing what is right for the people we serve,” Police Commissioner Sean McCarthy said during the ceremony.
McCarthy said the existing headquarters, built for a smaller department in a different era, has become outdated and undersized. The new building is designed to provide modern operational space, updated technology and improved accessibility for residents, along with community meeting areas.
Construction is expected to begin soon after the completion of site demolition and environmental remediation.
Police Chief Robert Del Muro, who has served the department for more than four decades, called the project the culmination of years of effort.
“Standing here today, it’s hard not to reflect on just how long this moment took to reach,” Del Muro said, noting that discussions about a new headquarters date back to the 1990s. “This is not just a building, it’s the result of decades of effort to do this the right way.”
The chief added that the current facility has been stretched beyond capacity and is no longer suitable for modern policing needs.
Project planners said the new headquarters will be built with sustainability in mind and is expected to meet LEED certification standards. Patrick Stone of H2M architects + engineers said the design emphasizes both environmental responsibility and integration into the surrounding downtown.
Source: LI Press
