ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The University of New Mexico (UNM) Police Department is set to move into a purpose-built headquarters, marking a major upgrade from the dormitory they’ve occupied for over two decades.

Currently operating out of Hokona Hall, a former student dormitory, the department has long faced space constraints and operational challenges. “It was never really designed to be or function as a police department,” said Jeff McDonald, Security Operations Director for UNM. “It was a dorm building.”

New Headquarters to Improve Operations and Safety

Construction on the new headquarters, located at University and Mesa Vista Rd., is scheduled to begin next week. The facility will provide enhanced workspaces, modern infrastructure, and increased security features for UNM’s police force.

“The new building will allow us to expand a little bit as the department needs grow,” McDonald said. The move will also address logistical issues like parking and equipment storage, providing officers with a dedicated facility built for law enforcement operations.

“This is going to be a much better situation for them as far as parking their vehicles and having a secure lot,” said Jim Lloyd, Project Manager for UNM Facilities Design and Construction.

Community and Campus Benefits

The project, estimated to cost $17 million, is being funded through a combination of $9 million from institutional bonds and $8 million from university funds. Officials believe the new location will not only improve operations but also bolster police presence on campus, enhancing safety for students and faculty.

“We’ve already had those discussions with [neighbors] and they’re feeling much safer now knowing that the police department is their neighbor,” McDonald added.

Future Plans for Hokona Hall

Once the police department moves to its new headquarters, UNM plans to renovate Hokona Hall back into a student-only dormitory. The change aligns with the university’s broader efforts to accommodate rising enrollment and improve student housing.

The new police headquarters is expected to be fully operational by late 2026, marking a significant step toward modernizing UNM’s security infrastructure.

Originally reported by Chandler Farnsworth in KRQE News.