BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The city of Bakersfield is looking at final steps in purchasing the Bank of America building in the downtown area, according to the City Council meeting agenda for Wednesday.
The 10-story building at Truxtun and Chester avenues across the Kern County courthouse is about 127,504 square feet with a parking garage on 2.3 acres. It’s also known as the Truxtun Tower.
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The city intends to move police department staff into the office space in the B of A building to address the growth in staffing level over the past few years.
Police staff are currently working from an office space on California Avenue, but officials argued the city could see significant savings if they choose the Truxtun Tower lease instead of the new negotiated lease for the California Avenue space.
It’s expected to cost the city $13.35 million to buy the building and more than $1 million additionally for improvements, officials said.
The Council is set to consider approving $12.1 million in interfund loan from the city’s Equipment Fund to serve as the main source for this purchase.
$2.5 million is set to come from the city’s Capital Facility Reserve, according to the agenda. This would also go to buying and improving the property.
According to the city, BPD staff is expected to move into the building in early 2027 but that depends on when the improvements are completed.
In March, the Council approved a lease agreement for the building with an option to purchase it in the near future.
The Council is scheduled to discuss this matter during its 5:15 p.m. meeting Aug. 26 at 1501 Truxtun Ave.
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