TORONTO - The Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services (MCSCS) and Infrastructure Ontario today announced that the request for proposals (RFP) stage has closed for building teams to submit bids to design, build, finance and maintain new OPP facilities in 16 communities across Ontario. 

The OPP Modernization Project includes the construction of new detachments, regional headquarters and forensic identification units.  

The new facilities, which in many cases are replacing work spaces (or buildings) that have exceeded their useful life, will feature up-to-date modern facilities to better support the demands of modern police operations and meet the needs of the community. 

Over the next few months, MCSCS and Infrastructure Ontario will evaluate the bidders' proposals based on criteria set out in the request for proposals. The successful bidder is expected to be announced in summer 2010 when the evaluation process is complete. The cost of the winning bid will be announced publicly following financial close. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2010. 

“Upgrading the OPP's infrastructure is an important element in our government's commitment to building safe, strong communities across Ontario,” said Rick Bartolucci, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services. “Our government continues to work with our policing partners to ensure they have the facilities and tools needed to provide effective community safety.” 

Infrastructure Ontario and the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services will work to develop the new OPP facilities, which will remain publicly owned, publicly controlled and publicly accountable. Infrastructure Ontario is a Crown corporation dedicated to managing some of the province's larger and more complex infrastructure renewal projects - ensuring they are built on time and on budget. 

Visit www.infrastructureontario.ca for more information. 

Contacts: 

Laura Blondeau  
Minister's Office
Community Safety and Correctional Services  
(416) 325-4973

Anthony Brown
Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services
(416) 314-7772

Tom Boreskie 
Infrastructure Ontario
(416) 327-5246