On Thursday, June 12, the Budget Engagement Commission (BEC) approved the architectural design and raised the budget to $62 million for the new Riverside Police Department headquarters planned for 4102 Orange Street.
The BEC voted unanimously 10-0 to pass the motion.
The new building will be built on their current site by updating the basement, first and second floor and adding 72 secured parking spaces. It will house the chief's office, personnel and training, records, intel affairs, administration/accounting, community services and IT.
The current building was built in 1963 and has recurring plumbing failures and AC/heating problems, doesn't have enough power and doesn't have enough secured parking spaces, according to Chief Gonzalez.
"All the different locations we looked at, we looked at the north side, we looked at some other sites, similar locations within the city, all the while the only place we really wanted to be is exactly where we're at now," said Police Chief Larry Gonzalez.
In May 2017, the city of Riverside adopted Measure Z and allocated $45 million for new headquarters. In October 2017, the city reallocated around $9 million of the $45 million for a new library. In April 2022, the police department bought the building they are currently located in.
Commissioner Miles Ward of Ward 5 expressed gratitude toward the police department before motioning to approve the changes to the budget.
"I don't think that there should be any more delay on this project," said Ward. "I trust the police department to move forward with this project…"
After the presentation, Commissioner Gregory B. Hutchins raised concerns about whether the 10 percent set aside for project contingencies will be enough to make up for the quick price inflation on construction material due to "tariffs or increased labor cost."
Assistant Chief Finance Officer Kristie Thomas reassured the BEC it will be enough to cover costs.
"As of today, we do believe that that will be sufficient funding for the construction, and if it's not we'll have to come back," said Thomas. "But that's the most that we are willing to commit today given our financial condition."
City Council will meet today, Tuesday, June 17. During the meeting, there will be a presentation of the preliminary renderings for the new police headquarters to the council, according to Public Information Officer Ryan Railsback. All renderings are preliminary and subject to change.
Anthony was born and raised in Pomona. After a decade in education, he now writes for Southern California News Group, LA Times, and LA Taco. He recently moved to Riverside with his wife Evelyn.
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