Former site of Aztec-themed Fry’s Electronics set to become Phoenix police precinct

A parcel of land in north Phoenix that was once home to an Aztec temple-themed Fry’s Electronics is set for a law enforcement makeover.

It’s part of a project to replace the Phoenix Police Department’s existing Cactus Park Precinct near 39th Avenue and Cactus Road, which has needed upgrades for years, according to Councilwoman Ann O’Brien.

“To say that this project is long overdue is certainly an understatement,” O’Brien said at a July 1 Phoenix City Council meeting.

The city selected an architect during the meeting to help build a new police precinct campus on the land.

City documents describe the current precinct as outdated and no longer aligned with current operational, accessibility or facility standards.

“The current precinct was built before women were even allowed to serve as Phoenix Police officers, and there are still ashtrays in the bathrooms,” O’Brien said. “The new precinct at 31st Avenue and Thunderbird will provide modern functional spaces and updated technology.”

The new precinct will be at 3035 W. Thunderbird Road, a 12.5-acre site the city purchased in 2025.

Who will design the future Cactus Park precinct?

Phoenix-based Arrington Watkins Architects will help design the police precinct campus, which is expected to include multiple structures and supporting infrastructure.

The five-year contract between the city and the company is worth up to $2.1 million, according to city documents.

“Our officers deserve facilities that reflect the professionalism and dedication they bring to the job every day. This investment demonstrates that we value their service and want to ensure they have the tools to succeed,” O’Brien said. “Just as importantly, residents deserve a precinct that can keep pace with growth and support the high level of public safety services they expect.”

The architectural firm’s work could also include construction administration, inspections and planning for future expansion as the area’s population grows.

The firm will also coordinate with the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture to incorporate artwork into the facility design and help the city identify possible grants for sustainability features.

“I’m excited that the former Fry’s Electronics, an iconic store for many residents, will be transformed from a vacant retail site into a major public safety asset,” O’Brien said. “The new precinct will take up more than 8 acres with the remaining 4 acres to be used for a future fire station.”

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