Frequently Asked Questions
About the Project
What is this project?
This project will build a new, modern facility that brings together Tigard’s police department, public works operations, and emergency coordination functions in one location.
It will replace aging, outdated facilities with a safe, efficient, and resilient space designed to support essential city services for the next 40 to 50 years.
Why do we need this now?
Tigard’s current police and public works facilities were built decades ago, when the city was much smaller. Since then, our population has tripled, but the buildings that support emergency response and core infrastructure have not kept pace.
Today, these facilities are:
- Overcrowded and inefficient
- Outdated and costly to maintain
- Not designed to meet modern safety standards
Delaying action will only increase costs and prolong these challenges.
Is this just a new office building?
No. This is not a typical office building.
The facility includes:
- Police operations and secure evidence storage
- A fully equipped Emergency Operations Center
- Public works fleet, equipment, and materials storage
- Training and coordination space for emergency response
This is a working facility that supports critical services every day and during emergencies.
Cost and Taxes
How much will this cost me?
The entire project (including land purchase and construction) is expected to come in under $150 million. To finance the project, the city would issue general obligation bonds, which are repaid through property taxes.
If approved, the estimated annual tax rate for the project would be:
- $0.765 per $1,000 of assessed property value
For the average Tigard homeowner, that equals:
- About $263 per year (about $22 per month)
Because Tigard’s current parks bond is scheduled to expire this year, the net increase over today’s tax rate is estimated to be:
- About $163 per year (about $14 per month)
For reference:
- The average assessed home value in Tigard is $344,406
- This corresponds to an average market value of approximately $638,972
Property taxes are based on assessed value, not market value, which helps keep costs more stable and predictable for homeowners.
Why does the project cost $150 million?
The $150 million estimate was developed through a detailed planning and design process, informed by architects, engineers, and construction professionals, and reflects current market conditions.
The total cost includes:
- Construction of the facility and site improvements
- Land acquisition
- Equipment, technology, and furnishings
- Design, engineering, and project management
- Contingency to address inflation and market uncertainty
This is not a typical building. It is being designed as an essential facility, which means it must:
- Withstand major earthquakes and natural disasters
- Remain operational during emergencies
- Support secure police operations and specialized equipment
These requirements ensure the facility can continue serving the community when it matters most and will provide long-term value for Tigard residents.
How were costs developed and verified?
Project costs were developed using industry-standard estimating practices and reviewed at multiple stages of the design process.
The city worked with experienced professionals to:
- Refine the design for efficiency and functionality
- Align the project with current construction market conditions
- Include appropriate contingency to manage risk and cost escalation
As with any major capital project, estimates are refined over time, but the project has been carefully planned to stay within the proposed bond amount.
Is Tigard already highly taxed?
Even with this bond, Tigard’s overall property tax rate is expected to remain competitive with neighboring communities.
The city has worked to balance the need for critical infrastructure with affordability for residents, while continuing to provide essential services.
How will funds be monitored and used responsibly?
If approved by voters, bond funds can only be used for the purposes described in the ballot measure.
The city is committed to transparency and accountability throughout the project. This includes:
- Regular public reporting on project progress and spending
- Independent financial audits
- Oversight to ensure funds are used as intended
These measures help ensure that taxpayer dollars are managed responsibly and that the project stays on track and within budget.
Design and Efficiency
Why combine police and public works into one facility?
Combining these services improves efficiency and coordination while reducing duplication.
This approach allows the city to:
- Share infrastructure like parking, storage, and common areas
- Reduce overall construction and operating costs
- Improve coordination during emergencies
It is a more efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
Why build new instead of renovating existing facilities?
Renovating the current facilities would still leave significant limitations.
The existing buildings were not designed for modern public safety and operational needs, and renovation would not fully address issues such as layout, capacity, and safety standards.
Building a new facility ensures the city can meet current and future needs effectively.
How is the facility used by police and public works?
The facility is shared between both departments:
- Approximately half supports police services
- Approximately half supports public works operations
Many spaces are shared, including meeting rooms, storage areas, and support functions, improving efficiency and coordination.
Community Impact
How will this improve emergency response?
This facility will significantly strengthen Tigard’s ability to respond to emergencies.
By bringing police, public works, and emergency coordination together in one location, the city can:
- Respond more quickly and effectively
- Coordinate across departments in real time
- Maintain operations during major disasters
When seconds matter, having teams working together in one place makes a difference.
What happens if the bond does not pass?
If the bond does not pass, Tigard will continue to rely on outdated and inefficient facilities.
This would likely result in:
- Increasing maintenance and repair costs
- Continued operational challenges
- Greater risk during emergencies
Delaying the project may also increase future costs due to inflation and construction market changes.
Project Details
Where will the facility be located?
The city purchased undeveloped land on SW Wall Street, off of SW Hunziker Road in spring 2024 for this project. Thorough site work was conducted to ensure the 9.5-acre property will work well for the construction of a new combined police and public works facility.
What is the timeline for the project?
If the bond passes, construction is expected to begin in early 2027, with an anticipated move-in date of late 2028 or early 2029.
What will happen to the current facilities?
The city is conducting a City Facilities System Plan study as part of its 2026 Capital Improvement Projects. This will guide the city's decision-making over the next 20 years as it works to improve its facilities and grow alongside our community in a responsible way. As part of this work, the city will be looking for your input on what to do with our current facilities.