Chapel Hill Police Department secures new building after long-awaited move

The Chapel Hill Police Department has secured its new location after a long-awaited move from its current building.

2024-09-23

The police department signed a lease at the North Chapel Business Center, committing to 58,000 square feet for its new headquarters. 

"We’ve been looking for a new home for our Guardians of the Hill for some time," Chapel Hill Police Chief Celisa Lehew said.

For years, WRAL News reported on the issues with the current police headquarters – a building that's deteriorating and unable to meet the department’s needs. There are also environmental concerns with the building because coal ash is buried there.

Lehew said the new headquarters will give the police department more space to improve training areas for officers and increased space for its growing Crisis Unit, as well as a more inviting place for community members.

The Chapel Hill Police Department has an expected move-in date of mid-2025. The new space is located just west of Interstate 40 and Highway 86 in Chapel Hill.

The North Chapel Business Center has attracted a wide range of tenants, including technology and medical manufacturers, a residential service provider and recreational users.