ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — A new state-of-the-art police station is expected to be completed within the next three years in Lacovia, St Elizabeth.

According to a release, Minister of National Security, Horace Chang, broke ground for the 5,223-square-foot facility, which is expected to cost $175 million.

Speaking at the event on Thursday, June 23, the minister insisted the government’s bid to upgrade police stations across the island will allow the officers to better serve and protect citizens.

“We want to send the message clearly, to the country, that the Government is committed, without any reservation, to investing in our security forces and to give them the capacity to respond to the level of violence in the society,” said Chang.

Construction is expected to commence in July.

The Minister also affirmed that the government is equipping the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) with the necessary tools required to respond to crime ad effectively do administrative work.

“We will ensure that they get computers, smart instruments to be able to communicate quickly and in real-time, to be able to manage cases, and to be able to respond quickly,” he said.

Six police stations across the island have already been constructed under the ministry’s project ‘Rebuild, Overhaul, and Construct’ (ROC).