More than 50 town officials and community members gathered at the entrance of the New Canaan Police Station on South Avenue on Wednesday morning to mark the re-opening of the renovated building.
The updated station at 174 South Ave.—a $20 million project, $29 million with soft costs such as insurance and the temporary headquarters downtown—includes new office space, locker rooms, and much more.
“The improved space enhances our ability to carry out daily operations, strengthen teamwork, and continue serving New Canaan with the highest standards of professionalism and care,” Police Chief John DiFederico said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on a sunny, breezy day.
Police Chief John DiFederico speaks at NCPD station re-opening. Credit: Donovan West
Those in attendance included First Selectman Dionna Carlson, Selectmen Steve Karl and Amy Murphy Carroll, Public Works Director Tiger Mann and Police Capt. Joseph Farenga.
The chair of the Police Department Building Committee, Bill Walbert, opened the ceremony by expressing his pride and admiration for the new station.
“Ideas were brought up the flagpole, numbers crunched, positives and negatives made,” he said. “In the end, I believe the town leaders reached the right decision. It was a beautiful building before we started the project—I believe we have made it even better.”
Walbert continued: “Most importantly, we have delivered a building that should last for another 100 years.”
Walbert then went on to thank a long list of contributors to the renovation project.
He thanked police commissioners Paul Foley, James McLaughlin and Shekaiba Bennett for their “tireless efforts to advocate for public safety and their determination to help bring the project forward.”
Walbert thanked his fellow police building committee members, the selectmen’s office, numerous contractors, additional town officials, and many others.
All of these people were needed to deliver a “beautiful building” that was “ahead of schedule, under budget, and had a perfect worker-safety record,” he said.
Carlson spoke next, stating that the “building stands as a symbol of our town’s commitment to public safety, modern law enforcement, and most importantly, the dedicated men and women who serve the town every day.”
She continued: “This building represents years of planning, collaboration, and unwavering support from town officials, law enforcement leadership, and the town residents.”
DiFederico was the last to speak, describing the importance of the renovated station.
“The station’s completion marks a significant milestone for our department and the community we proudly serve,” he said. “We are thankful to the taxpayers of New Canaan for your trust and investment into this important project. Your support has made it possible to create a safe, modern, and efficient facility that will serve our officers and the public for decades to come.”
DiFederico’s final words before the ribbon was cut were that “the renovated police headquarters is not just a building; it’s a reflection of the values, unity, and strength of this community.”
Police Department Opening May 2025
Credit: Donovan West
