Fort Worth police started construction on a police station in the northwestern part of the city Tuesday. The station will cover 31,710 square feet just west of Meacham Airport.
"This facility has been a long time coming," Northwest Division Commander Randy Molina said. "For years, we've operated out of several random locations, but today marks a significant milestone in consolidating our efforts."
Molina said Northwest Division officers are spread across a couple of places, but the new station will have room for all 200 officers, detectives, and leadership. The station will also have a meeting space for the public and organizations like Citizens On Patrol.
"We know this facility will become a second home for our Northwest family, a place we will cherish for years to come," he said.
Police Chief Neil Noakes said giving officers room to work together will help them work more efficiently.
"Our patrol operations play a critical operation in both crimes in progress and in the prevention of crime," Noakes said.
Construction is expected to cost $25.6 million. Funding was included in the 2022 bond.
"This is a special day," City Councilman Carlos Flores said. "We're committed to public safety, and this is a demonstration of that commitment."
This year, Fort Worth passed Austin as the fourth-biggest city in Texas. The Texas Demographic Center estimates Fort Worth's population is 989,878. The U.S. Census estimates 54,866 people had moved to Fort Worth from 2020 through 2023.
"Public safety makes for a great city and a safe city," Flores said. "We need to continue to do the utmost in that regard."
The station along Angle Avenue is expected to open in about a year.