Local Journalism Initiative
Radha Agarwal, Local Journalism Initiative, The Northern View
The Prince Rupert RCMP officially moved into their brand-new detachment at 145 Market Place on Thursday, April 10.
“We’re fully operational out of here. The old building is finished now,” said Insp. Gerald Walker, Officer in Charge. Phones have been routed to the new office, and staff have settled in. Public members wishing to speak with the police in-person, can attend the new facility.
“It’s a big undertaking for the City and a big commitment from the City.”
Insp. Gerald Walker, Officer in Charge
“It’s a beautiful building… It’s a great work environment that we have,” said Walker. He appreciates how secure and disaster-proof the new location and establishment are.
The old Prince Rupert detachment building was built in 1978 and was recently deemed inadequate by both the City and the police force, which prompted the need for a new facility.
“It’s a big undertaking for the City and a big commitment from the City,” said the inspector.
The City budgeted $25 million for the project, which was to be funded through debt from the Municipal Finance Authority.
Walker remembers arriving in Rupert in May 2022, when the Jehovah’s Witness hall was still located where the new detachment is now. He quickly began working on the floor plans and organizing meetings for the construction of the building.
Three years later, it has all become a reality.
“It’s prepared for the future, should the city expand—it has got that capability…The city built this, so big kudos to them.”
Insp. Gerald Walker, Officer in Charge
“It’s a new layout. People get lost in this building now,” he said with a laugh.
The new facility accommodates 36 staff members along with 17 municipal employees.
“It’s prepared for the future, should the city expand—it has got that capability…The city built this, so big kudos to them,” said Walker.
The city is responsible for providing adequate accommodation to its RCMP under the Municipal Police Agreement.
There will be an opening event for the community on April 29 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The occasion will include a ribbon cutting, refreshments, and an on-site BBQ for all attendees.
A more detailed story will follow.
