THUNDER BAY — The City of Thunder Bay is taking the first step toward a capital project that could cost tens of millions of dollars, the final price tag depending on the option that's chosen.
The city has issued a request for proposals from consultants to oversee a study into whether police headquarters on Balmoral Street should be upgraded or replaced.
The police station was built in the mid 1980s and was extensively renovated in 1992.
More than 320 officers and civilian staff currently work out of the building, nearly one-third more than when it was opened.
In an interview in December, Police Chief Sylvie Hauth said "There are lots of issues in terms of functionality, and it's really trying to keep up with the demands in terms of things that need upkeep."
The city's briefing notes for consultants note that "capital renewal has been ongoing however larger capital expenses relating to the roof replacement and heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrades have been deferred pending a decision on the long term facility requirements for TBPS."
Any new headquarters building would be expected to have a minimum lifespan of 50 years.
The consultant chosen for the project will be required to do extensive research into the current and future needs of the police service in a period of just eight months.
City officials hope to decide on the winning proponent next month.
They want the consultant's draft report with a business case and recommendations—including a ranking of facility models—by November, with a final report due by January 2020.
Senior city staff would receive a briefing on the consultant's findings about a month prior to the submission of the final report.
