Transforming Training: New State Police Academy Takes Shape in Hershey

PSP ConstructionCredit: Commonwealth Media Services

HERSHEY, PA — The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) have announced significant progress in the construction of a new, state-of-the-art training academy in Hershey, PA. This ambitious project aims to replace the current 64-year-old campus with a modern facility designed to equip future troopers with cutting-edge resources for law enforcement training.

Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, Deputy Commissioner of Operations for PSP, highlighted the advancements, emphasizing the construction of the five-story Marquee Building as a central component of the modernization effort. “This world-class facility will serve as a reminder to all who see it that the Pennsylvania State Police is committed to providing the best and most professional police service possible to the residents of our Commonwealth,” stated Bivens.

The Marquee Building will feature modern classrooms, administrative offices, 300 cadet dormitories, a 500-seat auditorium, and a large cafeteria. Upon its completion, the current Academy building will be demolished to accommodate additional training facilities. The project’s scope includes multiple new structures across the 146-acre site, such as stables for the PSP Mounted Unit, headquarters for the Bureau of Emergency and Special Operations, a central supply warehouse, and an outdoor tactical village designed for high-risk incident simulations.

Greg Kirk, Deputy Secretary of Capital Programs for the Department of General Services, expressed confidence in the project’s design and execution. “Through diligent planning and collaboration, we are transforming this site into a premier training environment that will benefit troopers and our Commonwealth for generations to come,” Kirk remarked.

While the new Academy is slated for completion in 2028, the site has remained operational, with ongoing construction and some structures already demolished to prepare the grounds. The project, valued at $387.8 million, has been awarded to multiple contractors, including Wohlsen Construction Company and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP as the design professional.

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Recruits have been training in Hershey since 1924, marking a long-standing tradition that will be bolstered by the new facilities. With the modernization, the PSP aims to attract the best recruits and foster collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.

As the Academy undergoes this significant transformation, it stands as a testament to the PSP’s efforts to evolve law enforcement education and ensure the safety and preparedness of future troopers.

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