At its Tuesday meeting, the Treasure Island City Commission gave the go‑ahead for a new public‑safety complex that will house both the Police Department and Fire Rescue. The design‑build agreement with Biltmore Construction Company carries an estimated price tag of $10.8 million.
Why a new building is needed
The current facility, built in 1957, suffered extensive damage during Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Since then, first‑responders have been operating out of temporary service bays and portable trailers, a situation city officials say is untenable for long‑term safety.
Project details and timeline
The multi‑story structure will rise on 108th Avenue, on the former City Hall site. Groundbreaking is slated for early October, with major construction beginning in December. The building will be engineered to exceed current coastal construction standards and Risk Category IV requirements, incorporating storm‑surge protection and hurricane‑resistant features throughout.
Inside, the facility will contain police and fire offices, evidence‑storage capabilities, and dedicated space for community engagement. The fire‑station component includes a three‑bay garage for emergency vehicles, sleeping quarters for personnel, and a versatile training and meeting room that can double as an Emergency Operations Center after a storm.
Cost‑saving measures
Public Works Director and Assistant City Manager Gary Volenec explained that the design team focused on a functional yet compact floor plan. “We evaluated construction techniques that help save money, from air‑conditioning and lighting to insulation and the building’s elevation,” he said, noting that permitting constraints required careful planning.
The State of Florida has earmarked $4 million toward the project, reducing the burden on local taxpayers.
Community response
Residents voiced strong support during the public comment period. “This is a big investment during uncertain times, but it sends an important message about Treasure Island’s future,” said Diana Crabill. She added that first‑responders have been forced to work in metal trailers, a condition she likened to “worse than what most of us provide for our pets.”
Mike Braddy echoed the sentiment, stating the project “should have been done years ago” and urging swift completion.
First‑responder perspective
Fire Rescue Chief Trip Barrs highlighted the vulnerability exposed by Hurricane Helene, noting that a hardened, reliable facility is essential for maintaining emergency services when residents need them most. “This investment will strengthen our ability to respond to everyday emergencies, withstand future storms and continue providing the level of service our community expects and deserves,” he said.
Local business owner Clyde Smith, who runs the Bilmar Beach Resort, praised the police and fire departments as “invaluable for both residents and businesses,” recalling a recent incident where a paramedic checked on a hotel safety issue after the storm.
Next steps
With the contract approved, the city will move forward with final design reviews and procurement processes. Officials expect the completed facility to be operational within the next few years, providing a modern, resilient hub for Treasure Island’s public‑safety mission.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
