On Ottawa’s bustling Elgin Street, across from the Museum of Nature at Argyle Avenue, sits the Ottawa Police Headquarters building.
The large grey cement and glass structure at 474 Elgin St., stretches to Catherine Street and houses the Ottawa Police Service, established in 1995 when Ottawa, Nepean and Gloucester amalgamated into a single police service.
The building, surrounded by police cruisers and security cameras, is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Outside the building, a sign outlines the goal of the police force: “Working together for a safer community.”
Through the front doors, a large mosaic depicts police officers on duty, as well as historical figures, and a wall plaque commemorates officers killed in the line of duty.
Around the corner, a gift shop sells police paraphernalia.
The second floor of the building houses the Police Service Credit Union, Human Resources, and Media Relations.
The Elgin Street Police Headquarters was formally inaugurated on June 21, 1983, by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
On March 3, 1993, it was renamed the Thomas G Flanagan building, in honour of the former chief of police, who began his policing career in 1951, and quickly made an impression on the community. His ability to chase down a suspect on foot earned him the name “Fleet-Foot Flanagan.”
In July 1, 1980, Flanagan was sworn in as chief and served until his retirement in 1993. During his career he was awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct, the Star of Courage, and the Police Exemplary Service Medal.
Flanagan died in 2002 at the age of 74.