Police Back Where They Belong -- MesoLink.org -- 05-04-05

The Police Department at Long Beach has at long last returned to its rightful place – its original downtown offices from which it was evacuated three years ago due to the presence of asbestos and other toxic substances. However, within the three year period of absence the building has been given a $46 million cash injection, and at long last it has been deemed ready for officers and staff to move back in.

The renovations began in May 2002, and seven hundred officers and staff had to be relocated due to the potential contamination and pollution from asbestos and lead paint. However, this has now been removed and stripped, and the building is once again safe to be used as working premises by the Police Department. Facilities and furniture have been updated, and there is a new lobby to complete the facelift of the building.

Lt. Ted Holst stated, "The building had deteriorated to the point where something had to be done. It's totally upgraded, safe, and the lobby is probably among the finest you'll find at any police station in the United States." Lt. Holst was responsible for the administration for works in progress while the renovations were being carried out.

A Long Beach Public Works Department official stated, "It was cost-effective because to tear down and rebuild the building would have cost between $80 and $100 million. The $46 million includes the design and renovation, hazardous materials removal, moving costs, furniture, construction of the new crime lab and all the costs associated with occupying City Hall East. Amazingly, it was on budget."