The New Canaan Police Department Building Committee held its hybrid meeting on Sept. 12, providing updates on the ongoing renovation and expansion of the police station. The meeting focused on the progress of construction, budget management, and resolving site issues.
The first order of business was to approve the meeting minutes from the Aug. 22 meeting when the committee received updates from Turner Construction reported about the completion of the underground sanitary and storm systems and the initial work on the building’s steel framework. Delays in starting steelwork on the addition were noted, primarily due to shoring challenges with the east wall. The committee also approved a change order to replace the light bollards in front of the building with fixtures that match the town’s standard light poles, a decision with a not-to-exceed cost of $15,000.
Transformer Relocation Decision
One of the main agenda items at the Sept. 12 meeting was the relocation of a large transformer initially planned for the front of the police station. Committee members raised concerns about its visibility and impact on the building’s façade due to changes in the grade around the site. After discussing alternatives, they approved relocating the transformer to a less visible location near the building’s generator at an estimated cost of $25,000. The relocation will require additional conduits and electrical work, but the committee unanimously agreed that the adjustment would improve the station’s aesthetics and avoid potential issues with the public.
Landscaping plans were also discussed to further screen the transformer from view, with Arborvitae plantings being added to provide additional cover. The committee noted that this solution balances aesthetic concerns and budget constraints.
Construction Updates
Turner Construction provided a comprehensive report on the renovation’s progress. The most significant update was the completion of the structural work for the building’s new addition in August. Masonry work has begun on the lower level, focusing on the area designated for holding cells. Additionally, preparatory work is underway for the installation of a new generator, with the pad now ready for placement. The generator is scheduled to arrive by the end of September, keeping this key part of the project on track.
Turner also noted that the pace of construction is expected to increase significantly in the coming months. With multiple trades now working on-site, the project will see a ramp-up in manpower, increasing from 20 to nearly 40 workers. The next major milestone is achieving watertight status for the building by late October, which will allow interior work to progress without weather-related delays.
Break-in at Construction Site
A major security issue was raised during the meeting. Turner Construction reported that a break-in occurred at the construction site, resulting in the theft of tools valued at between $20,000 and $30,000. The thieves managed to disable security cameras and targeted high-value gang boxes containing specialized tools. The police are investigating the break-in, and additional security measures are being considered, such as repositioning cameras and reinforcing site surveillance. Despite this setback, no significant damage was done to the construction site itself.
Budget Review and Financial Updates
The committee also reviewed the project’s budget. Turner Construction confirmed that the project remains financially sound, with sufficient contingency funds available to address unforeseen expenses. The project’s soft cost includes a budget line for “Utility Relocations” in the amount of $25,000, which will likely cover the transformer relocation costs. Other budget adjustments were reviewed, including minor changes to flooring materials and light fixtures.
Turner Construction also noted that the relocation of the transformer may slightly delay the timeline for securing permanent power to the building, as additional coordination with Eversource will be required. However, the overall budget impact remains manageable, and the project remains on track for completion within the established financial framework.
