A recent press release through the Chestermere RCMP Detachment updated the progress of the expansion of the town’s Protection Services Building which will combine the RCMP detachment and the existing Fire Station and EMS.
Staff Sergeant Glenn Henry said that the construction began on July 17 with the installation of security fencing in front and beside the existing Chestermere RCMP Detachment. Hughes Construction Services Ltd. was recently awarded the contract for the building of the new municipal police building which will be attached to the Chestermere Fire Hall. This will complete the second phase of the emergency services building and provide Chestermere residents with modern police and fire facilities now and into the future.
Site preparation has been ongoing for some time by the Town of Chestermere Public Works employees. This site preparation included the demolition of the old fire hall, the construction of the retaining wall along the back border and a rear parking area.
The new building should be completed by late fall of 2014. Henry said that during the interim the Chestermere RCMP will operate from the existing detachment building and public access will be through the glass door place in the old north garage bay. Signs will be posted to assist with parking and directions. Regular office hours of Monday to Friday 8:30AM to 5PM will remain in effect. The yellow phone box has been relocated to the north glass door entrance directly below the RCMP sign and can be used for after hours police contact.
The public, during construction, will have limited parking access in front of the construction fencing and along East Chestermere Drive. Henry asks for the patience and cooperation of residents and persons seeking fire and police services during this transition and appreciates their cooperation.
In a prior interview Henry saw the joining of these two departments as a positive movement towards a more efficient operation. He said, “It’s more bang for the buck.” The Community Peace Officers which are under the umbrella of a Provincial Municipal Program will be able to work together with the RCMP through more accessible communication by nature of closeness.
Always appreciative of the town’s efforts in supporting his department, Henry commends the leadership and commitment from the Town of Chestermere for the creation of this specialized municipal building.
