GLADSTONE — The Gladstone Police Headquarters and City Hall expansion project were named an Officer Station and Design Silver Award winner by Officer Magazine in its Officer Station Design Awards.

The project was designed by firm Hoefer Welker and was completed in early October 2023. The renovation and additions totaled more than 46,000 square feet.

For decades, the Gladstone Police Department and City Hall were confined to an outdated space that no longer served the needs of the growing community and police force, said city leaders.

The project emerged from “Gladstone: Shaping Our Future,” a citizen-based strategic planning process that increased community support and secured funding through a half-cent sales tax.

Initially designed in 1961, the facilities had been renovated and expanded seven times. “The city’s desire to stay in the current downtown facilities, including maintaining public parking for multi-use events, underscores its commitment to accessibility, community engagement and preserving the central hub of civic activity,” reads a city release.

The new police and city entrance design blends with the existing building. The renovation also includes a more modern property evidence room and modern offices. The new regional 911 communications center is a key addition that enhances operational efficiency through the co-location of multiple agencies.

“This strategic consolidation of dispatch services aims to improve interagency coordination, streamline response efforts, and strengthen partnerships,” reads the release.

Chief Fred Farris said the new facility “instills pride in coming to work” and includes equipment that enables officers to work more efficiently.