GP Police to upgrade holding cells at 99th St. detachment

Sep 17, 2026 | 12:35 PM

The Grande Prairie Police Service is preparing to take over policing jurisdiction of Grande Prairie as of Oct. 21.

As part of that process, GPPS has announced that once they move into the 99th Street detachment, they will be upgrading holding cells to “enhance safety and wellness measures.”

Biometric monitoring technology is being installed in eight holding cells; “The system provides continuous, contactless monitoring of detainees by tracking indicators such as respiration patterns, movement, and potential signs of medical distress.”

“The technology is intended to enhance detainee safety” as if any concerning changes are detected, the system alerts staff immediately, supporting a timely response, according to GPPS.

On top of the new monitoring system, GPPS says they will continue to provide a healthcare professional in the cell block and will work with Mobile Outreach to connect detainees who wish to access supports after their release.

As part of the City’s preparation for the policing change, the Public Safety Communications Centre has moved out of City on 99th to a new location and will be taking on call-intake and dispatch responsibilities for GPPS, Enforcement Services and Mobile Outreach.

The first official day of GPPS taking over the police jurisdiction is set for Oct. 21, however, the RCMP will still operate in surrounding areas around the City, with a new detachment planned for Clairmont.

by Tanner Smith