The public has a chance to get an update on the new Branson Police Facility.

The full release below is from the City of Branson:

The agenda of Branson’s next City Council meeting on Tuesday, June 25, includes discussion on next steps for the highly anticipated new Police Department (PD). The proposed facility, a $16 million renovation of what was known as The White House Theater, is designed with the latest technology, has a central location within the growing City, and has room for expansion. The Police Department, now at nearly 100 percent staffing, resides in inadequate, tight quarters below City Hall, with no extra room for education or training activities.  

“This new facility will provide the much-needed space for both the City’s current needs and additional space for the future,” said Police Chief Eric Schmitt. “We look forward to the increased footprint that is essential for PD high-tech operations and to navigate and facilitate training and educational opportunities for our officers and our community.” The Chief goes on to emphasize the direct safety benefits of the facility, “Our residents, businesses and visitors will experience improved emergency responses and enhanced support of duties and services that are of great importance to our them,” said Chief Schmitt. 

In the two hours prior to City Council commencing, the public is invited to view the architectural renderings for the facility, plus visit with engineers and project managers.  

The redesign utilizes 42,360 square feet to house the City’s Police Department, a temporary holding facility, and a community/training room. The remaining footage (23,640 square feet) is to be white boxed for future phases, as the centrally situated site has multiple roads and access points that make it an ideal location for additional community services. Plans now call for securing the bond attainment and beginning construction.  The facility will be largely funded through the half-cent Public Safety Sales Tax passed by voters in 2017.  Completion is expected in December 2025.   

Background: In 2022, the City acquired an 11-acre parcel of land for $2.5 million, located at 2255 Gretna Road, to include a 66,000 square foot building formerly known as the White House Theater. Demolition & interior/exterior project work has been ongoing since late winter/spring 2023. The City then held an auction of theater contents and demolished much of the interior. Feasibility studies and a needs assessment were completed, and the design moved forward.