Treasure Island Breaks Ground Oct 8 on $10.8M Public Safety Facility for Police and Fire Rescue

Treasure Island will host a ceremonial groundbreaking on Thursday, October 8, at 10 a.m. for its new public safety facility. The event will mark the beginning of a project to house the Treasure Island Police Department and Treasure Island Fire Rescue at a single, resilient location on 108th Avenue, the former City Hall site.

The new facility is a critical investment in the community's infrastructure, replacing a building that has served the island since 1957. The urgency for a new, permanent home for public safety personnel became clear after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which forced police officers and firefighters to operate from temporary trailers. This project ensures that first responders will have a safe and modern base of operations, enhancing their ability to serve residents effectively.

Designed to meet or exceed current coastal construction standards and Risk Category IV requirements, the new building will feature a three-bay garage, sleeping quarters, and meeting space for the fire station. The police department will benefit from secure offices, dedicated evidence storage, and areas designed for community engagement. Additionally, a multipurpose training room will serve a dual role, functioning as a post-storm Emergency Operations Center, further bolstering the island's disaster preparedness.

The total cost for the project is $10.8 million, with $4 million secured through state funding. While the groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for October 8, construction is not anticipated to begin until later in the year. Mayor John Doctor, Police Chief John Barkley, Fire Chief Trip Barrs, Florida State Senator Nick DiCeglie, and Florida State Representative Linda Chaney are expected to attend the event, along with other city officials and community members.