The City of Tempe contracted with Arrington Watkins Architects LLC to design a new Police facility on Apache Boulevard in 2004 and the project was completed in 2007. The Police Substation houses the North Patrol operations, Traffic operations, Communication's 911 and dispatch center, and all associated support functions. About 190 people will eventually work at or be based at this station. The space requirements also included secured parking for the North Patrol fleet, Traffic motorcycles, large specialty vehicles, and exterior storage. The facility provides a Community Room that may be used by the neighborhood for public meetings or events. The construction scope included all necessary site preparation, paving, landscaping, building(s) and interior furnishings and finishes. Work in the right-of-way included coordination with a new traffic signal and crossing installed with the new light rail system.

The design process was an exceptionally inclusive one; input was sought from all levels of the Police Department. Decisions about project details all the way down to selection of carpet and desk chairs were made in large group meetings with Police staff. Excellent participation in the process was received from outside departments as well including Planning, Building, Public Works, and Facility Maintenance. Community groups provided valuable input through a series of public meetings.

The property for the project is located at 1855 East Apache Blvd and is within the Apache Boulevard Redevelopment Area along the new light rail line. The site is approximately 9 acres and is roughly 300 ft. by 1325 ft. without any significant features or topography. It is bounded on the south by railroad tracks and is surrounded by medium density residential and industrial properties. The site was chosen for its good proximity to downtown and to reinforce the City's commitment to improving this blighted neighborhood. It provides a welcome Police presence in the area. The design and site planning respond to security concerns while addressing redevelopment area guidelines which call for buildings to orient themselves to and interact with the street frontage, as well as provide architectural interest.