$50M Norwich Police Station Proposal: What It Means for Officers and Residents

Why Norwich Needs a New Police Station

The Norwich Police Department (NPD) wants to build a new police station. The current station on Thames Street is too small and outdated. The new station would cost $50 million and be in the Chelsea Groton Bank building in downtown Norwich. This will help police work better and keep the city safe.

Problems with the Current Station

• Too Many Officers, Not Enough Space: The station was built for 51 officers, but now there are 85.
• Old Building: The structure cannot support an extra floor, and fixing it would not help much.
• Parking & Location Issues: There is not enough parking, and the station is on a hill that is falling apart.
• Not Enough Facilities: Officers need more lockers, a gym, and proper rooms for interviews and booking.

Benefits of the New Station

If built, the new station would have:

• More Space: Room for 120 officers, ready for future needs.
• Better Booking & Interview Areas: More privacy and efficiency.
• Modern Lockers & Gym: Helping officers stay healthy.
• Holding Cells for Mental Health Cases: A safer way to help people in crisis.
• Community Spaces: Public meeting rooms, a Norwich Police Museum, and offices for mental health services.
• Bike Patrols Downtown: Helping officers connect with the community.

Why the City Should Approve It Now

The project will cost $50 million and take about 20 months to build if approved in November 2025. If delayed, the cost could go up because materials will become more expensive.

Past Plans and Current Efforts

• 2012 Plan: A proposal for a station on Cliff Street was rejected because it was too expensive.
• 2023 Plan: A $44.75 million plan for Mahan Drive was rejected due to concerns, including a skate park relocation.
• 2024 Effort: The City Council approved buying the Chelsea Groton Bank building for $800,000, the cheapest option compared to other sites.

Funding & Support

Police Chief Patrick Daley is asking the state and federal government to pay for up to 50% of the cost. U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney and State Senator Cathy Osten support the plan, but more help is needed from Governor Ned Lamont and other leaders.

What Happens If the City Does Nothing?

If the new station is not approved:

• Hiring & Keeping Officers Will Be Harder: Especially for female officers, due to a lack of proper facilities.
• Police Work Will Suffer: Officers will struggle with limited space and resources.
• Public Safety Could Get Worse: Response times might be slower, and holding cells may not be enough.

How You Can Get Involved

Chief Daley is holding public meetings every month to talk about the plan and show why a new station is needed. Meetings will be at Norwich City Hall, the Thames Street station, and the Chelsea Groton Bank building.

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Final Thoughts: Why This Matters

Norwich needs a better police station. The longer we wait, the more expensive it will be. This is not just about a new building—it’s about keeping the city safe.

How You Can Help:

• Attend Meetings to learn more.
• Follow Norwich PD Updates on social media.
• Talk to Local Leaders to show your support.

Would you support a new Norwich Police Station? Let us know!