The Town of Sahuarita has started construction on a significant expansion of the Sahuarita Police Department (SPD) facility. The project, with an estimated cost of $7 million, aims to modernize police operations and support officer wellness and training as the community continues to grow.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held with Mayor Tom Murphy, Police Chief John Noland, members of the Town Council, and representatives from project partners Concord and Shive-Hattery in attendance.
“This project represents more than bricks, beams, and blueprints,” said Mayor Tom Murphy. “It represents our continued investment in safety, service, and trust. As we turn the soil today, we’re laying the foundation for the next generation of public safety in Sahuarita.”
The expansion will introduce several new features to SPD facilities. These include a property and evidence warehouse designed to meet ALEAP standards for improved evidence handling and storage; a crime scene services laboratory to enhance forensic capabilities; an expanded secure parking lot with a new west gate entry; and a new annex building that will house a larger training room, a fully equipped gym for officer wellness, and a dedicated emergency operations center.
Additional improvements include expanding interior workspace for criminal investigations staff and administrative offices as well as installing a solar canopy system intended to lower energy costs and provide shaded parking.
Chief Noland commented on the significance of these updates: “This expansion demonstrates the Town’s commitment to supporting the Police Department and investing in the resources we need to serve Sahuarita,” Noland said. “The added space, modernization, and wellness features will improve our ability to deliver high-quality service, strengthen recruitment and retention, and provide our team with the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.”
Mayor Murphy expressed gratitude toward those involved in advancing the project. “Each person here helped make this project possible. This is a shared investment in Sahuarita’s future,” he said. “To our officers: thank you for your dedication. To our partners: thank you for helping us build a safer, stronger, and more connected Sahuarita.”
