Cleveland's $21 Million Upgrade to Modernize Police Districts Aims to Improve Public Safety

Cleveland's $21 Million Investment in Police Infrastructure

Cleveland's Mayor Justin Bibb, in collaboration with the City Council, the Cleveland Division of Police, and Leopardo Energy, has unveiled an ambitious plan to invest $21 million in modernizing the city's police district buildings. This significant initiative, launched under the Mayor's Raising Investment in Safety (RISE) program, aims to enhance public safety across Cleveland with upgraded facilities that will better support police officers and the communities they serve.

Mayor Bibb emphasized the importance of providing police officers with a working environment that's not only safe but also welcoming and fully equipped. He stated, "Our officers dedicate countless hours to serving our neighborhoods, and they deserve facilities that are welcoming, safe, and fully equipped to meet the needs of both our officers and the communities they protect." This modernization project serves as a tangible commitment to both the Cleveland police workforce and the public they protect.

The RISE initiative represents one of the most comprehensive public safety strategies in the city’s history. The program focuses on strengthening safety through strategic partnerships, technological enhancements, and regional coordination. Chief Dorothy Todd complemented the Mayor's vision, noting that this investment affirms the value of the Division of Police and ensures that officers have safe and reliable workplaces.

The project will be spearheaded by Leopardo Energy, known for their expertise in sustainable construction. Starting in November, they will replace roofs and windows, add new heating and cooling systems, and install solar panels in the police facilities. These upgrades aim not only to enhance energy efficiency but also to ensure that the buildings remain functional during power outages and emergencies. Mayor Bibb highlighted the dual benefits of the upgrades, saying, "We're not just fixing buildings — we're strengthening the Cleveland community."

Leopardo Energy guarantees that this investment will yield $48 million in savings over the next two decades. Importantly, it will not require new taxes for funding; rather, the city will fund the upgrades through the savings generated. If the savings fall short of expectations, Leopardo Energy will compensate the city for the difference. Curtis Leopardo, CEO of Leopardo Energy, assured that their past guarantees have been fulfilled, stating, "Our promise is simple — the savings are real and risk-free for Cleveland."

The project is expected to generate approximately 376 local jobs, with a commitment to hiring from within the skilled workforce of Cleveland. With the involvement of the Cleveland Building Construction Trades Council, the initiative will not only benefit the police facilities but will also strengthen the local economy. Jim O'Malley, President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 8, expressed support for the initiative, calling it a crucial step towards enhancing the working conditions for police officers in the city.

In addition to the major investment in police infrastructure, the Bibb Administration is pursuing other public safety measures. These include a focus on youth programs through the Mayor's Office of Prevention, increased salaries for police officers, traffic calming strategies, and the expansion of the SAFE SMART CLE camera sharing program. Each of these initiatives reinforces the commitment to creating safer neighborhoods throughout Cleveland.

Overall, this $21 million investment represents a significant advancement in Cleveland’s public safety infrastructure, aiming to provide police with the support they need for effective community service while enhancing the overall safety of Cleveland residents. The partnership with Leopardo Energy embodies a forward-thinking approach to public safety and sustainability, laying the groundwork for a safer, more resilient future for the city.

This modernization effort is not just an upgrade; it reflects a holistic commitment to community safety and environmental responsibility, marking a new chapter for police work in the city.