WHY FRANKLIN NEEDS A NEW POLICE STATION
Read more to learn how this project will strengthen public safety, support our officers, and ensure Franklin remains one of the safest communities for years to come.
ABOUT THE FRANKLIN POLICE DEPARTMENT
The Franklin Police Department has been serving the community from its current station since 1991. Prior to that, the department operated from a facility built in 1957 on East Street, which was used for 34 years before moving to the present station at 911 Panther Way. The current station was designed for a much smaller force, but as Franklin has grown, so have the demands on its police department—while the facility has remained unchanged.
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Today, the number of officers has nearly doubled, and the available space is stretched beyond its limits. Offices meant for one or two people now accommodate multiple personnel, creating cramped conditions that hinder efficiency. Essential operations, from investigations to evidence processing, take place in spaces never designed for such purposes. A new police station is a critical necessity to support modern law enforcement.
WHERE WE GO FROM HERE
Despite the growing demands on Franklin’s police force, the station has undergone no major expansions since its construction. Minor modifications have been made, but they are temporary fixes for a long-term problem. The officers, who work tirelessly to keep Franklin one of the safest communities in America, operate in a facility that no longer meets modern policing standards.
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A new police station will address these deficiencies by providing properly sized workspaces, enhanced security, dedicated training facilities, sufficient storage, and expanded parking. This investment will ensure the Franklin Police Department can continue to serve the community effectively, now and in the future.
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The department has earned accreditation from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission, underscoring its commitment to excellence, despite working in less-than-ideal conditions. By investing in a modern facility, Franklin will enhance public safety, improve efficiency, and ensure the police department has the resources it needs to protect and serve residents for decades to come.
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A transparent process will help community members understand the need for a new police station and the benefits it will bring. In collaboration with CHA, the project manager, and KBA, the project’s architects, a feasibility study will be conducted to guide the development of this much-needed facility. Together, we can create a modern police station that supports the evolving needs of law enforcement and strengthens public safety for years to come.
