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.

Waveland Begins New Police Station

WAVELAND -- By next fall this city will have a new public safety complex that will include a police station and Waveland City Court, according to media reports.

Waveland breaks ground on new police station

www.wlox.com

The new building, which will be located on McLaurin Street, replaces the police station lost during Hurricane Katrina.

Work starts on library, police station

www.sunherald.com

The $5.9 million building will be named for a 27-year officer, Donald Dorn, who was Waveland's first police chief, and the late Mayor Johnny Longo. James Varnell is the current police chief.

At the above and other links hear what police officials and Mayor Tommy Longo said about Waveland's new public safety complex as well as the city's new public library. Groundbreakings for both building will be held this weekend.