Taunton breaks ground on new public safety complex

TAUNTON, Mass. (WLNE) — Taunton officials participated in a groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday, May 1 for the city’s new public safety facility.

Mayor Shaunna O’Connell, Taunton police and fire officials and other city elected officials were on hand for the event to mark the beginning of the departments’ move from the temporary facilities they have called home for over 40 years.

This new facility will house the Taunton Police Department, Taunton Fire Department, 911 Emergency Communications Center, a fire training building and other services.

Taunton has not had a new police station in over 100 years.

The plans for the facility were proposed by Mayor O’Connell in 2023, passed by the city council and voters supported the measure with passage of a ballot question.

“After decades of discussions and attempts, we are here to break ground on this new public safety facility that will help keep Taunton safe for decades to come,” said Mayor O’Connell.

“Building this modern public safety facility is an important milestone for Taunton’s future.”

Demolition of the former Villa Fatima building was completed in November of 2023 and the contract for the new facility was awarded in April 2024.

The project bids came in $8-10 million below projections, according to the City of Taunton.

“Central Fire Station is over 150 years old. It was built for horses. We need a modern facility,” said Former Fire Chief Timothy Bradshaw.

“The Mayor and her administration made this happen and it’s great to be here to see this project take off.”

With construction underway, the public is advised that 90 County Street is an active construction zone and public access is restricted.