Vacant New Bedford church torn down for new public safety complex

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) – Demolition began at St. Anne’s Church in New Bedford Tuesday, where the city’s first public safety facility in more than 50 years will be built.

The parish that dates back to the 1940s was closed by the Fall River Diocese in 2004 and has remained vacant for the past 15 years.

“It’s sad because it’s historical, it’s been here for forever,” said New Bedford resident Christina Foss.

Tuesday morning, construction crews started to tear down the building. In its place will be the South Public Safety Center expected to open in 2021.

The facility will house fire, police, EMS, emergency management, fire prevention, and animal control. It will allow the city to consolidate five public safety buildings in the city that are deteriorating. 

Mayor Jon Mitchell said fixing each building would cost the city around $30 million. This project is expected to cost $19 million.

Those who live in the city’s south end are happy to see it go, and hope having law enforcement in a more centralized place will make their streets safer.

“Fire, ambulance and police… that’s a good feeling. That is a good feeling in your neighborhood,” said resident Earlene Beland.

© WLNE-TV 2019