Geneva unveils revised police station proposal after community feedback

The city of Geneva is introducing to the public a revised police station concept that is smaller in scope and lower in cost.

Since March, city officials have reviewed resident feedback while working to address ongoing challenges facing the current station at 20 Police Plaza. The revised proposal is now available on the city’s website, along with architect renderings, a new South Street site plan, details on what has changed, an estimated tax impact calculator, FAQs, and more.

The city is sending an informational mailer and will conduct a community survey in December. The public is also invited to attend an open house from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30, or 1:30 to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, at the Geneva Public Library, 227 S. Seventh St. A brief presentation will be provided once per hour, and there will be informational tables with city staff on hand to answer questions about the revised proposal.

The proposal still calls for a new building on city-owned property on South Street, adjacent to the Geneva Public Works facility. Key revisions based on community feedback include:

• Downsizing the original proposal by 34%, cutting project costs by $20 million

• Eliminating the indoor firing range

• Reducing the police vehicle parking area

• Shrinking the building footprint by 14,000 square feet, including a smaller front entrance

• Keeping Sam Hill Park

• Maintaining one baseball field

City officials will work with the Geneva Park District to identify replacement locations for the second baseball field and skatepark (or similar project).

While no decision has been made, the city will be reviewing the community feedback in late December following the engagement period. For more information, visit geneva.il.us/publicsafety. Questions can be directed to publicsafety@geneva.il.us.