Public Safety Complex step closer in Ocean Springs

OCEAN SPRINGS -- A public safety complex that will house police officers, firefighters and court facilities is a step closer to reality.

The Ocean Springs Board of Aldermen on Dec. 01 awarded bids totaling $6.5 million to two construction companies, according to reporter April Havens in The Mississippi Press.

Whose on the Board of Aldermen?

She said the complex -- 38,500 square feet -- consists of two buildings on east U.S. 90. GM&R Construction Co. of Waveland was awarded a $2.7 million contract to construct a fire station and emergency operations building.

Get information on the Ocean Springs Fire Department

and the new chief, Jeffrey Ponson.

Gulf Construction Co. of Gulfport was awarded a $3.9 million contract to build the housing for a police station, jail and court facilities.

Find out about Chief Lionel Cothern

and the Ocean Springs Police Department.

Mayor Connie Moran said the complex is being paid for with $800,000 in city funds, $4.5 million from a food and beverage tax, and a Community Development Block Grant, according to the Mississippi Press at www.gulflive.com .

What happens during

emergency operations in Ocean Springs?

The reporter said land clearing and groundwork have been done and construction could start this month. The complex should be completed in about a year.

Public Safety Center in Ocean Springs

OCEAN SPRINGS -- Emergency personnel will soon see the results of several years of work by city officials to bring a new Public Safety Center to this city.

A groundbreaking today officially began the start of construction for a 4,000-square-foot building.

The Ocean Springs Public Safety Center will house police station and jail, fire department, and courtroom activities.

About two years ago, 66 percent of Ocean Springs residents approved a 2 percent sales tax to pay for the center.