Bidding to Open for Lock Haven Police Station

By Christopher Miller

LOCK HAVEN – During the City Council meeting Monday night, the Council voted to authorize the solicitation of bids for the Lock Haven Police Station project.

“This will improve operational efficiency, proper evidence storage, will provide for a more secure transportation of inmates and other persons to the courts and the correctional facility via an underground garage and parking facility for police vehicles,” Police Chief Matthew Rickard said.

“Our current police station has an outdated layout that hinders a proper workflow and officer movement throughout the facility. The new facility will offer an integration with modern technology and will also enhance our ability to apply for federal and state money for equipment and programs. Is it clear to me that a 24/7 coverage operation is high-priority for our citizens, hire quality officers, and retain officers.”

City Planner Abbey Roberts added that this project was something that was in the works “for years.”

“We have the land development approval. Documents are completed and are under review by the USDA so we should have no problem with his getting council to begin bidding this project out,” she said.

The timeline, Roberts said, includes accepting bids through February with construction beginning as soon as the weather permits in the spring, and project completion by summer 2027.

Councilwoman Barb Masorti replied that the current building “is outdated, inefficient, and I cannot believe we get people to come and work here.”

Resident and councilman-elect Micah Clausen spoke up, asking if the current officers had looked over the design and offered ideas or criticisms as to the layout and design.

“The plans you see are the current intention of how it will be laid out and space used,” Chief Rickard said. “Right now anything will be an improvement from what it is, and yes my officers have seen the blueprints for the project.”

Councilman Jeff Brinker mentioned that the current footprint of the designs stands at around 6,200 sq. ft.

“If we decrease the size of the building, would it be effective and decrease the cost,” he asked.

Planner Abbey Roberts said that it would cost engineering fees and a $500,000 grant.

“It is do or die, right now,” she said.

Councilman Jeff Brinker and Mayor Joel Long both voted against authorizing the project to go to bid.