Dalton Advances New Police Station Site Selection

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 12:14 GMT by Berkshire Eagle
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Dalton Gears Up for New Police Station: Site Selection Advances, Funding Pursuit Intensifies

DALTTON - The future of law enforcement in Dalton, Massachusetts, is taking shape as the Select Board's Police Station Site Selection Committee recently greenlit three potential locations for a much-needed new police station. The decision, reached after months of deliberation, marks a significant step forward in a project that began with a recommendation from the Police Station Building Committee last year, acknowledging the shortcomings of the current facilities.

The existing police station has long been a source of concern for both officers and town officials. Space constraints, outdated infrastructure, and a lack of modern amenities have hampered the department's ability to effectively serve the community. A feasibility study conducted by the Police Station Building Committee last year underscored these issues and solidified the need for a new facility. That report estimated the project cost to be between $5 million and $7 million, a substantial investment reflecting the long-term benefits a modern station will bring.

The Site Selection Committee, a diverse group of town officials and community stakeholders, embarked on a comprehensive evaluation process, meticulously assessing numerous potential sites based on a weighted criteria including cost-effectiveness, accessibility for both officers and the public, and suitability to accommodate the department's present and future needs. After careful consideration, the committee narrowed the field down to three finalists: the former Boys & Girls Club property on Summer Street, a town-owned parcel located off Route 8, and the privately owned property at 70-72 Main Street, formerly housing Dalton Savings Bank.

Each site presents a unique set of advantages and disadvantages, as highlighted by committee member and Select Board representative Sarah Hegarty. The former Boys & Girls Club location boasts a central position within the town, offering convenient access for residents and efficient response times. However, this prime location comes with a caveat: the site is known to have environmental contamination that will necessitate costly remediation efforts before construction can commence. This adds a layer of complexity and potential expense to the project.

The Route 8 parcel, in contrast, offers the benefit of a lower price tag due to its ownership by the town. However, its relatively isolated location raises concerns about accessibility, both for police personnel and for members of the public seeking to interact with law enforcement. A more remote location could also impact response times to incidents occurring within the town center.

The third option, the former Dalton Savings Bank on Main Street, provides a favorable blend of location and visibility. Situated in the heart of Dalton, it would ensure high public access and maintain a strong police presence in the downtown area. The main obstacle here is that the property is currently privately owned, requiring the town to negotiate a purchase agreement - a process that could potentially be lengthy and complex. The price point, while not publicly disclosed, is expected to be higher than the Route 8 option.

"We've worked diligently to identify sites that best meet the needs of our police department and the community as a whole," stated Hegarty. "Each site has its pros and cons, and we believe these three represent the most viable options moving forward."

The committee's recommendations will now be presented to the full Select Board, who will undertake further review and ultimately make the final decision on the site. This decision will likely factor in public input, budgetary considerations, and long-term strategic planning for the town of Dalton.

Simultaneously, the town is aggressively pursuing grant funding opportunities to help alleviate the financial burden of the new station. Securing grants will be critical to minimizing the impact on local taxpayers and ensuring the project remains financially feasible. Hegarty emphasized the importance of this fundraising effort, noting that a collaborative approach involving town officials, community leaders, and grant writing specialists is underway.

The selection of a new police station site is more than just a logistical undertaking; it represents a commitment to public safety and a proactive investment in the future of Dalton. A modern, well-equipped police station will not only enhance the department's operational capabilities but also serve as a symbol of the town's dedication to its residents.