FDLE breaks ground for new Fort Myers operations center
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement broke ground Thursday for a new operations center in Fort Myers.
The 64,000-square-foot complex to be built on 8.28-acres at 16595 Oriole Road will act as the hub for the FDLE Fort Myers region, officials said.
The construction project is anticipated to take 13 months with FDLE to then move its Fort Myers Regional Operations Center from Page Field airport to the property close to I-75 and Alico Road.
The new center will include office space, laboratory areas for FDLE’s Forensic Services including the Biology, Chemistry, Crime Scene, Friction Ridge and Evidence disciplines, a training center built to host trainings, events and meetings, and a warehouse facility.
Officials said it will be an asset to law enforcement and the community alike.
“As the former Special Agent in Charge for Fort Myers, it’s an honor to be here as we lay the foundation for this region’s future,” said FDLE Deputy Commissioner Vaden Pollard. “This new regional operations center is more than bricks and mortar, it’s a reflection of FDLE’s growth, our commitment to southwest Florida and our investment in the people who serve and protect it every day.”
Three years ago, Hurricane Ian swept through Southwest Florida, leaving a trail of destruction in Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties. The storm left structural damage to the Fort Myers Regional Operations Center.
During its recent session, the Florida Legislature approved the project that local law enforcement said will be of great benefit.
“This new facility means faster results, better evidence handling and ultimately more justice for victims,” said Punta Gorda Police Chief Pam Smith. “FDLE brings their expertise, knowledge and manpower to scenes that other small agencies sometimes can’t provide. That dependable support is invaluable when every second counts.”
FDLE Fort Myers Special Agent in Charge Eli Lawson took a similar view.
“As with the investigations our agents and analysts conduct, the disciplines that our forensic scientists practice, and the support that all members provide to accomplish FDLE’s mission, FDLE extends the same level of excellence and innovation through this project,” Lawson said.. “FDLE is growing, and the department has nurtured that growth with top-of-the-line facilities, equipment and people.”
The estimated completion date is October 2026.
“We are proud to partner with FDLE and Easterly on a project of this significance,” said Seagate Development Group CEO Matt Price. “This facility represents advanced design, resilient construction, and functional efficiency. Every element has been thoughtfully engineered to meet the critical needs of law enforcement and serve as a forward-thinking resource for the community.”