The Polk County Board of Commissioners is considering two new projects for 2013 – different quarters for the police and public works departments.

Commissioners have approved a $12,000 quote from Robert Noble for architectural services to reconfigure the former Georgia State Patrol building.

This structure will be the new home of the Polk County Police Department. The scope of work includes enclosing the breezeway and moving walls to rearrange space needed by the police officers.

Previous construction estimates of $600,000 for the project have changed. County officials now believe it will cost no more than $300,000 or $400,000.

County Manager Matt Denton hopes to put the project out for bid in February.

Chief Kenny Dodd said moral is up in the Polk County Police Department and his officers are excited about the move.

“We have always been in the same building with the sheriff,” he said. “The move will mean a great deal to our officers to have a place to call home.”

Dodd said he currently has eight patrol supervisors in one 12x12 office. Once the move is made, each will be in a separate office. There will also be room for evidence for the next 15 years.

“This is a vision for the future and will assure expansion if needed in the next decade,” Dodd said.

Meanwhile, grading continues at the site of the new public works building, which will be located near the firing range.

Estimated cost of the 12,700 square foot facility is $1.2 million.

Allen Bell Architects is designing the facility. The firm submitted a low bid of $47,000 for the proposed plan, which was approved by the Polk County Board of Commissioners. Other bidders included Charles Gauthreaux Architects, $60,680 and Haigler Systems Architects, $66,920.

The metal/brick structure will include five bays for equipment storage, a repair shop, wash bay, and office space.

If the county board votes to move ahead with the project, Denton said it could be put out for bid later this year.