The City of Waukegan is moving ahead with plans to build a new, modern police station, potentially at the site of a former hotel, to replace the current police station downtown.
City officials say conversations are continuing about where to build a new police station for the Waukegan Police Department.
The new, modern police station will replace the current facility adjacent to Waukegan City Hall, portions of which date back to 1935 and the 1960s.
The existing building no longer meets the needs of a 21st-century law enforcement facility, city officials said.
The topic has prompted months of discussion about possible locations in Waukegan for the new station.
One site under consideration is 200 North Green Bay Road, which is the former Ramada Inn property that was fully demolished earlier this year.
The location’s central access has been highlighted as a key benefit, city officials said.
“It’s centrally located in the city with easy access in all directions,” Waukegan Police Chief Edgar Navarro said. “We’ll build it with our community in mind.”
Mayor Sam Cunningham said that while no final decision has been made, the need for a new station is clear.
“If we can make a deal which is satisfactory to the city and its taxpayers, we see 200 North Green Bay as a possible location for a new police station,” Cunningham said.
The future facility will include space for community meetings, officer wellness, training and other essential functions not currently available.
The Waukegan City Council has voted unanimously to continue discussions, with further talks scheduled for January 20 where the council could vote on purchasing the former Ramada Inn property.