ARDMORE, Okla. — A major step forward in upgrading Ardmore’s law enforcement facilities is now official. The Ardmore City Commission has approved a bid from Miller-Tippins Construction LLC to build the city’s new police headquarters, with a total project cost of $15.6 million. Funding will come from Ardmore’s voter-approved GAPS tax.

Construction is expected to start as early as next month, with the goal of moving in by November 2026.

City officials and law enforcement leaders say the new headquarters is a much-needed investment in public safety infrastructure. The current police building — decades old — has outdated facilities, limited space, and maintenance issues that make it less efficient for modern policing needs.

Why a New Police Headquarters is Needed

The new facility will:

• Provide larger office space and updated work areas for officers and staff.
• Include modern evidence storage and secure holding areas.
• Feature enhanced technology to improve communication and operational response times.
• Offer improved community engagement spaces for public meetings and outreach programs.

“This is a critical step in ensuring our police department has the tools and resources it needs to serve Ardmore effectively for decades to come,” said an Ardmore city representative. “The current building simply does not meet the demands of today’s law enforcement operations.”

Economic and Community Impact

The project is expected to generate construction jobs and bring new contracts for local suppliers and subcontractors. Once completed, the headquarters will stand as a long-term investment in Ardmore’s downtown area, potentially boosting surrounding property values and attracting new development.

Project Timeline and Milestones

• Bid Award: August 2025
• Construction Start: September 2025 (expected)
• Substantial Completion: Fall 2026
• Move-In Date: November 2026

Miller-Tippins Construction, known for delivering large-scale municipal projects in Oklahoma, will oversee all phases of the build — from site preparation to final interior installations.

Looking Ahead

Ardmore police leadership has expressed excitement for the move. “This facility will allow us to operate more efficiently, better serve the public, and provide a safer environment for our officers,” an APD spokesperson said. “We’re grateful to the community for supporting this project through the GAPS tax.”

Updates on the construction progress will be posted on the city’s official website and social media channels as work gets underway.

Originally reported by Kendall Timms in KTEN 10 News.