Durango's ambitious joint city hall and police station project at the historic former high school site continues to advance toward construction. Funded by a $61 million voter-approved bond, the initiative involves renovating the 201 E. 12th St. building and constructing a new police facility nearby, with total costs estimated between $60 million and $80 million.[1][2] Recent changes to the conceptual design eliminated plans for an underground parking garage and conversion of the adjacent Big Picture High School building due to structural code requirements, opting instead for surface-level secure parking solutions.[3]
Forum Highlights Key Updates
At the first Engage Durango forum of 2026, city officials presented these modifications and outlined a construction sequence beginning with site demolition and city hall work, expanding over two years to encompass the police department.[3] FCI Project Manager Steven Stewart noted, "It will start as a smaller job. Site demo. And then city hall construction," emphasizing community updates through spring.[3] Assistant City Manager Bob Brammer addressed budget alignment, stating the bond provides the precise funding as teams refine the master plan.[3] Asbestos remediation is required prior to major work, with the city seeking a $500,000 EPA grant to offset costs.[4]
In parallel, the City of Durango issued an RFP for commissioning agent services for the project, with proposals due March 12.[5] This procurement step opens opportunities for qualified professionals in commissioning and verification.
Three Springs Elementary Nears Start
The Durango School District's Three Springs Elementary School, allocated $50 million from a $150 million bond, remains on track with construction drawings nearing 100% completion.[6] City approval for land subdivision paves the way for roadway work as early as March or April, weather permitting, followed by school construction in summer.[8]
These projects represent significant non-road construction efforts, with the city project estimated above $60 million and the school at $50 million. Near-term milestones include RFP evaluations, remediation bids, and initial groundwork, positioning contractors, engineers, and specialists for involvement as phases commence this fall.[3][8]
- Can Durango build a city hall and police station by October 2028? A firm says yes
- Asbestos remediation required for conversion of historic Durango High School
- Joint city hall and police station project featured at Engage Durango forum
- Asbestos remediation required for conversion of historic Durango High School
- Commissioning Agent CXA Services for the City of Durango City Hall & Police Dept
- $150 million school district bond passes in Durango
- February 2026 bond update: Three Springs Elementary construction on track