$2.5 Million for Caribou Police Station Secured by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a senior member of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $2.5 million for the construction of a new Caribou Police Station in the Fiscal Year 2023 Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill.  As the Ranking Member and lead Republican on the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Collins co-authored the bill. 

The omnibus funding package passed the Senate by a vote of 68-29.  It will now be passed by the House before heading to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

“Ensuring that Caribou’s finest have adequate facilities is essential to the delivery of efficient emergency services,” said Senator Collins.  “The current police station is more than 80 years old, faces significant maintenance issues, and lacks adequate space for police officers to do their jobs as effectively as possible.  This funding for a new building will enhance Caribou law enforcement’s ability to serve and protect the community.”

Chief Michael Gahagan added, “We appreciate the support of Senator Collins to advance our progress for a much-needed facility, not only for our Officers but also for the citizens of the City of Caribou.”

“The citizens and elected officials in Caribou have been working towards a goal of a new police station for several years and this support from Senator Collins is just what was needed to give the project momentum,” said Caribou City Manager Penny Thompson. “We appreciate all she has done to strengthen our local efforts.”

The existing Caribou Police Station was constructed in 1937 as a fire station. According to the City's design consultant, the facility fails to meet current federal and international building standards and is unsuited for renovation. 

The funding will support the construction of a new police station for Caribou, which will serve as a vital hub for law enforcement across Aroostook County.  It will include the only centralized jail holding facility for Aroostook County, 52 miles north of the County jail in Houlton.  

A new facility will also contribute to improved morale, officer retention, and recruitment success.  Additional community benefits will include increased accessibility and parking as well as a more hospitable, welcoming reception area, all separate from law enforcement operations.

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