City leaders are looking forward to adding a new Fort Myers police headquarters to the area as new developments are underway.
The building will be located on the intersection of Fowler and Market Street next to the old Newspress building.
The space sits empty now, but the city is talking about transforming the area into the new headquarters for the Fort Myers Police Department.
Capt. Roger Valdivia with the FMPD said his team needs a convenient one-stop facility from which to work.
"Our agency -- this building was built in '83. We have completely outgrown it. We're very fragmented throughout the city," said Valdivia.
City leaders and the FMPD outlined new developments for the facility Monday. The new building would be 180,000 square feet with space for future expansion. Of the three design options, No. 3 looks like the winner. Valdivia says the facility will work as a multiple-purpose complex that will bring all units under one roof.
"So, our property in evidence, our crime scene processing, our vehicle storage, the gun range, K-9, bike units, all our investigative units, of course, our administrative, and then again, bringing that community component that we're lacking now," said Valdivia.
Mayor Kevin Anderson says this project isn't just an investment for the police department but for the community as well.
"That's why, you know, one, make sure we put up a really good building. Hopefully, it's going to lead toward the renovation of Fowler Street. And it's going to contribute to the redevelopment of the midtown area," said Valdivia.
The new HQ comes with a massive price tag, though. Architects say the build could cost more than $139 million.
"That's a huge amount of money. And again, if it's -- if the system's not broken, why fix it? That's my thoughts," said Fort Myers resident Linda Trent.
However, Valdivia says it's a necessity.
"That number, you have to remember is that's just an estimate. That's, that, that's a figure that the architect came up with based on their experience, on their knowledge, their expertise. The city has not decided on a construction manager yet," said Valdivia.
City leaders predict the department will be able to move in in June 2027.