Construction of Fort Myers’ proposed new police headquarters could begin as early as July — or not at all — depending on what happens in Tallahassee.
City Manager Marty Lawing warned City Council members during a Jan. 12 workshop that the $140 million-plus project could be abandoned if the Florida Legislature alters property tax revenue during the current session or a potential special session. Gov. Ron DeSantis and lawmakers are considering several proposals, including a constitutional amendment, that could reduce or eliminate property taxes, a major funding source for local governments.
Council received the update with the project about 50% designed. The proposed 172,000-square-foot headquarters would be built on the northwest corner of Fowler and Market streets, just south of the former News-Press property. The project is scheduled to go out to bid March 5.
The latest cost estimate — just under $143 million — is about $4 million higher than the previous projection, said Caryn Huff, director of operations for Wharton-Smith. The breakdown includes $112.7 million for the main building and shooting range; $13.5 million for site development; $3.9 million for furniture, fixtures and equipment; $7.2 million for design services; and $5.6 million for IT and radio systems.
Huff said the total could come down as contingency costs decrease with the design nearing completion and competitive bidding begins.
The Fort Myers Police Department headquarters is seen at night. City Council approved multiple state and federal grants that will fund public safety technology, officer training and crime prevention initiatives in 2026.
Evan Williams
City Budget Manager Christine Tenney said the city would need to borrow the full amount to fund the project. Annual debt service would total about $8.3 million at a 4.2% interest rate over 30 years, with total interest costs reaching roughly $249 million — nearly double the construction price.
“It’s the only way we can afford this project,” she said.
To help cover the debt service, the city is considering a public safety impact fee on new construction.
“There’s a lot of work that will need to be done between now and the completion of the 100% drawings,” Lawing said. “Although it’s only a few months away, we are pushing as hard as we can to be creative, to keep the total cost down and looking at every option.”
If construction proceeds on schedule, the building would be ready for occupancy Feb. 28, 2028. Lawing said the city would sell its current police headquarters on Widman Way, though the property has not yet been appraised.