Plano plans new police academy ahead of May bond election for $51M funding

During the recent Richardson City Council meeting on March 3, 2025, significant discussions centered around the future of the Richardson-Plano Police Academy and the evolving role of policing in the community. The meeting highlighted the need for a new police academy facility, as the current building, located in Plano, is in disrepair. Plano's Chief Puett and Richardson officials are advocating for a bond election in May to secure $51 million for the construction of a new academy, which would better serve not only Richardson and Plano but also three other police departments in Collin County that utilize the facility.

The proposed new academy would be strategically built where the existing track is located, allowing for a phased construction approach that minimizes disruption. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing police training and community engagement, as the academy serves as a critical resource for law enforcement education and collaboration.

In addition to the academy discussions, the meeting also addressed advancements in policing technology. The introduction of PowerDMS, a digital management system, aims to streamline policy implementation and training processes, enhancing transparency and efficiency for recruits. The police department is also exploring the establishment of a real-time crime center, which would leverage data to assist officers in the field, improving response times and situational awareness.

The conversation extended to the integration of drones as first responders, a forward-thinking approach that could revolutionize how police respond to incidents. By deploying drones to specific locations based on call data, officers could receive crucial information before arriving on the scene, thereby enhancing public safety.

Looking ahead, the council acknowledged the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which is expected to draw significant crowds to the North Texas region. Richardson officials are preparing to collaborate with neighboring agencies to ensure effective policing during this major event, recognizing the importance of community safety in high-traffic situations.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the importance of community engagement in policing. Officials emphasized that modern policing extends beyond law enforcement to include community coaching and support programs, such as crisis intervention and homeless engagement initiatives. The Richardson Police Department is committed to fostering strong community ties while ensuring public safety, reflecting a holistic approach to law enforcement in the city.

As these initiatives progress, the city council's support will be crucial in shaping the future of policing and community safety in Richardson.