ECSU to dedicate new police station

Photo by Fran Funk

Connecticut Department of Public Works Commissioner Raeanne V. Curtis and Eastern Connecticut State University President Dr. Elsa M. Núñez will host an Open House to celebrate the university’s new public safety building at campus on Thursday at 10 a.m.

The newly completed $3.6 million campus police station is located at 44 Charter Oak Road, off High Street, on the ECSU campus.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell stated, “Our administration is committed to safety and security on our state’s college campuses. This new public safety building at Eastern Connecticut State University in Willimantic highlights that commitment. It is facilities like these that bring peace of mind to parents, students, faculty and staff alike.”

DPW Commissioner Curtis said, “This was a very successful project, and I am proud of the Department of Public Works’ role during the planning, design and the building of this terrific new campus police station. Together we are meeting the safety and security needs of the Eastern Connecticut State University community, today and for many years to come.”

ECSU President Núñez said, “We are fortunate to have a very committed public safety department on our campus. Through their vigilance, educational programs and ongoing collaboration with the student body and the greater university community, our police force has effectively heightened the awareness and sensitivity for public safety thereby fostering a campus environment characterized by the wellbeing of each individual.”

The speakers at the open house will include DPW Commissioner Curtis, and ECSU President Núñez, Dr. David G. Carter Sr., chancellor of the Connecticut State University System; Richard Balducci, vice chairman, CSU Board of Trustees; Jeffrey Garewski, ECSU chief of police; and Mita Lad, ECSU student government president.

The new campus police station is a three-floor, 8,500-square-foot, red brick building. The state-of-the-art facility houses administrative offices, a communications center, records area, evidence space, locker rooms, and training and conference rooms.

The project architect was Jacunski Humes Architects LLC of Berlin; the contractor was Enfield Builders Inc. of Enfield and the construction administrator was Mike Donnelly, DCS, LLC, Rocky Hill.

The state Department of Public Works is responsible for the design and construction of major capital building projects (except highways and bridges) for most state agencies, leasing and acquisitions statewide, and facility management, maintenance and security of state buildings in the greater Hartford area.