Historic $45 Million Development Transforms Kalamazoo Township with New Civic Center

*KALAMAZOO TWP., MI — Kalamazoo Township is set to break ground this summer on a transformative new $45 million community campus that will house both township administrative offices and the police department in a modern, 100,000-square-foot facility scheduled to open in June 2028*.

The ambitious project represents a major upgrade from the township's current nearly 50-year-old building on Old Riverview Drive, which officials say is falling apart and cannot accommodate the growing needs of modern municipal operations.

Modern Facility on Douglas Avenue

The new Community Campus will be built at 3006 Douglas Ave, near West Mosel Avenue, on property the township purchased for $1 million in 2024. Groundbreaking ceremonies are slated for June 2026, with construction expected to take two years.

The facility features a thoughtful design that separates public and law enforcement functions while creating a welcoming space for community engagement.

"I think it's beautiful and fitting for this township, and we need more people to fill those seats," said Supervisor David Combs regarding the new boardroom.

The boardroom will accommodate seating for 108 people during public meetings and community events. The space is flexible, with seating that can be moved around to accommodate any size gathering.

Township Offices and Police Station

The building's design places township administrative offices in the front half of the facility, while the police station occupies the second floor in the rear. This arrangement allows both departments to operate efficiently while serving the community.

Police Department Features

The police headquarters includes specialized features designed for modern law enforcement operations:

  • Elevator for moving evidence between floors
  • Garages for vehicle maintenance
  • Exercise area with updated locker rooms for officers
  • Ample space for the growing police force

Administrative Features

The administrative portion welcomes residents with:

  • Circle driveway leading to a rustic wood and stone entrance
  • Board room with seating for 108 people
  • Updated presentation technology
  • Office space for expanded administrative staff
  • Public meeting spaces that can be reconfigured

Problems with Current Facility

Superintendent Tracie Moored has long advocated for a new facility, citing numerous problems with the 1977 building:

  • Cramped, outdated office and meeting spaces
  • Failing plumbing systems
  • Outdated HVAC system
  • Structural integrity issues
  • Designed for a smaller township staff and police force

The current facility has served the community for nearly five decades but cannot meet the needs of the growing township.

Future Planning and Election Timeline

The anticipated summer 2028 opening date falls just before the presidential election. Township Clerk Lisa Mackie noted that delays could impact election workers who rely on the facility as their home base.

"Should there be delays, it could impact election workers' home base," said Clerk Lisa Mackie.

The construction team will set an exact date in the future, with contingencies planned in advance to avoid any last-minute changes.

Sustainable Building Design

The development incorporates several sustainable features into the preliminary designs, including:

  • Drought-tolerant landscaping to reduce water usage
  • Use of local, recycled materials in construction
  • Energy-efficient systems
  • Sustainable building practices

Moving Forward

The township board is considering selling its current home at 1720 Riverview Drive, located about three miles from the new facility. Proceeds from the sale will help offset the cost of the new development, which will be covered by capital funds according to a 2024 press release.

The $45 million Community Campus project represents a significant investment in Kalamazoo Township's future, bringing modern facilities and improved services to the community while maintaining the character of the township.