The Town of Cochrane is adding one acre to the size of the new police station to allow for adequate parking at a cost of $700,000.

At its Sept. 11 meeting, town council was told the original 2.095 acres purchased is largely required for the new facility and parking would be an issue. Administration has been working with RCMP officials in planning the development and the issue was quickly identified upon reviewing the site. Rather than looking for a solution afterwards, they wanted to deal with the matter upfront before construction begins.

The additional land purchase will be funded through the debt servicing reserve for the police station. The town is now entering the design phase of the project and expect to break ground in 2018. It will house RCMP and Alberta Sheriffs for the Cochrane region as well as Victims Services.

The town's 10-year financial strategy estimates a $17.4 million expenditure.