Fort Collins Police Converting Detention Space Into Mental Health and Homelessness Outreach Hub
Fort Collins Police Services is permanently converting an unused detention area in its headquarters into a shared hub for its Mental Health Response Team and homeless outreach unit, reflecting a shift in how officers address behavioral health and homelessness calls starting this spring.
Renovation of the detention area on the lower level of FCPS headquarters began Jan. 19, with completion expected in May 2026.
"This renovation reflects our focus on efficient operations, enhanced public service, and, of course, community partnerships," said FCPS Chief of Police Jeff Swoboda. "Once completed, the new space will modernize our facility and better support coordinated responses to complex community needs."
Housing the MHRT and HOPE team in a dedicated shared space at police headquarters underscores the department's commitment to diversion-first responses for residents experiencing mental health crises or homelessness—moving away from traditional detention-based approaches.
The MHRT, launched in 2021, pairs Fort Collins police officers with UCHealth clinicians to reduce emergency room transports and jail bookings by resolving or diverting behavioral health incidents to appropriate services.
Residents can request MHRT response through 911. If MHRT is unavailable, a patrol officer responds. All FCPS officers receive mental health response training.
The Woodward Charitable Trust, a private charitable foundation supporting nonprofit and civic organizations in communities where Woodward operates, is funding the renovation.
"The Woodward Charitable Trust is honored to support the re-envisioning of the existing space within the police services building," said Kody Braisted, Woodward Charitable Trust President. "Partnering with FCPS to enable a more coordinated approach across these dedicated teams aligns perfectly with the priorities of the Trust."
The remodeled hub is expected to open by May 2026, with police operations uninterrupted.