As most of you have noticed, or maybe not, the RCMP building has been under construction for quite some time. The previous RCMP building was too small for Chestermeres current RCMP Detachment. As it was the old Municipal Office, it lacks some key features to a RCMP Station (i.e. holding cells). A new building was designed to meet the needs of the detachment and is in the same location but attached to the existing Fire Hall.
On Tuesday June 9th, 2015, the new RCMP building opened its doors with an official ribbon cutting – well actually, and more appropriately, an official crime scene tape cutting.
Detachment Commander, Glenn Henry S/Sgt. commented, “With the new building the capability to house persons in custody and conduct breath testing for impaired driving are the most significant. Our members can remain in Chestermere and provide operational coverage to our city while conducting these investigations”.
He went on to explain, “The new facility ties in to the generator in the fire hall which allows for emergency back-up power in cases of power disruptions. Previously we would be forced to relocate in instances of power failure. For the past two years we have not had the ability to process crime scene vehicles as we had no indoor secure storage bays. We were also limited on our evidence storage and file storage due to limited spaces”.
Mayor Matthews commented, “We’re very excited to see the doors open on the new RCMP section of the Emergency Services Building. With the cells in place and the upgrades done this building will fit the needs of our community for many many years to come.”
An official grand opening celebration will likely be taking place in the fall.
