SAN MARCOS POLICE DEPARTMENT
The San Marcos Police Department has completed a major renovation of its headquarters, enhancing facilities that have served the community since 1974. The $11.5 million project, which began in 2020, expands office space, modernizes critical infrastructure and adds new amenities to better serve the city’s growing population. Despite challenges like supply chain delays and severe weather, the upgrades were completed on budget, offering a more efficient and accessible space for both officers and the public.
The San Marcos Police Department has officially completed an extensive renovation of its headquarters, originally built in 1974. The building, which has served as a base for local business and warehousing, was first renovated when the department moved in around 1990-1991. At the time, the space seemed far too large for the department’s needs. However, as the city grew, so did the department, prompting the need for further expansion and modernization.
In 2016, the city began assessing its facilities to determine areas in need of improvement. A bond committee consisting of 30 local citizens was formed, and after months of discussions, the committee identified the police department’s headquarters as one of several buildings requiring upgrades. The committee’s initial assessment indicated that improvements could cost up to $5 million, though further investigations showed that the total costs would be closer to $5.5 million.
The renovation process began in 2020 but was met with numerous challenges, including labor shortages, supply chain delays and even severe weather. A major hurdle was the replacement of the building’s HVAC system, which had to be sourced from overseas. During construction, the department remained open, with staff working around the ongoing renovations, including dealing with the discovery of asbestos and wiring issues. Additionally, record rains caused significant damage to the roof, although fortunately, the damage occurred in a section of the building that was not being renovated.
Despite these obstacles, the renovation was completed at a total cost of approximately $11.5 million. This was a significant savings compared to the $20 million it would have cost to construct an entirely new facility. The updated building now features a larger 911 call center, expanded office space, and improved public amenities, including a new lobby facing Highway 35 for easier access. The department also increased its square footage by 9,000 square feet and upgraded its shooting range and driving track.
“Our primary goal was to be fiscally responsible while ensuring we had the space and resources needed to serve our community,” SMPD Assistant Chief of Administration Bob Klett said. “We’re proud to show off the improvements and grateful to the bond committee and everyone who helped make this possible.”
The renovation also included environmentally- friendly upgrades, such as LED lighting and an updated HVAC system. As construction wrapped up, the department received its certificate of occupancy in 2023, though some final touches are still being completed.
The police department looks forward to using its expanded facilities to better serve the growing needs of San Marcos residents, while continuing to be a responsible steward of public funds.
