By a split vote, the Rochester City Council has approved plans to build a $16 million police substation in the Beechwood Neighborhood. The city would borrow $12 million to build the substation at East Main and Laura Streets.
There were nearly two hours of public comments before the vote, with many saying the resources should be used for low income families that face eviction because of the pandemic. Others supported the substation and said it could improve police-community relations.
The vote was 6-3, with councilmembers Mary Lupien, Jackie Ortiz and Jose Peo opposed. They said it was the wrong time to borrow millions and spend city resources that might better be used elsewhere.
The project will take about two-and-a-half years to complete.