Houston Begins Construction on Cutting Edge $10.5 Million Firearms Training Center to Strengthen Police Preparedness

A New Era in Law Enforcement Training Takes Shape in Houston

The Houston Police Academy Campus is set to undergo a major transformation as construction begins this month on a state-of-the-art firearms training facility. With a total budget of $10.5 million, the new center is designed to meet the evolving demands of law enforcement in a rapidly changing world.

Named the Fertitta Family Firearms Training Facility, the project honors Houston entrepreneur and philanthropist Tilman Fertitta, who contributed $2.5 million to support the initiative. Fertitta also serves as chairman of the Houston Police Foundation, the nonprofit spearheading this ambitious upgrade.

Why a New Training Center Was Needed

The current firearms training facility in use by Houston police dates back to the 1980s and offers only five shooting booths with limited space and outdated infrastructure. Officers have long required a more advanced and expansive environment to train for high-stress, real-life scenarios.

The foundation emphasized that the outdated range is no longer adequate, especially in light of the department’s strategic push to increase the number of rifle-trained officers. This effort is directly aimed at improving responses to active shooter incidents, which demand rapid and precise tactical readiness.

The new training center will solve these issues by featuring 20 shooting lanes, each stretching 100 yards, allowing for simultaneous training of more officers in a controlled and modernized setting.

Strategic Location and Vision

This new firearms facility will be strategically located near the existing Tilman Fertitta Family Tactical Training Center, a $10 million project completed in 2020. Together, these centers form a powerful training hub on the academy campus, offering comprehensive instruction for Houston's law enforcement personnel.

In a letter describing the project’s importance, Charlene Floyd, Executive Director of the Houston Police Foundation, underscored the urgent need for such an investment:

“In today's complex environment, our officers face unprecedented challenges. Comprehensive and ongoing training is essential to equip them with the skills necessary to protect our community effectively.”

Features and Facilities Designed for Excellence

The Fertitta Family Firearms Training Facility is designed with a holistic approach to law enforcement training. It won’t just be about the firing range—plans include:

Two modern classrooms for theoretical training and scenario planning

A secure armory and ammunition storage area

Locker rooms for officers and trainees

Dedicated office space for staff and trainers

These additions ensure that officers receive multi-dimensional, integrated training—balancing physical readiness with tactical thinking and strategic planning.

Funding the Vision

As of this month, the foundation has successfully raised $5 million of the total $10.5 million required. Fundraising efforts are ongoing, and construction is expected to begin later this month. The remaining funds are being sought through additional private donations and community support.

This initiative reflects Houston's broader commitment to public safety, officer development, and community trust, ensuring law enforcement officers are not only well-trained but also fully equipped to meet the challenges of modern policing.

Looking Ahead

The Fertitta Family Firearms Training Facility is more than a construction project—it’s a symbol of innovation and commitment to excellence in law enforcement. Once complete, it will provide Houston’s police officers with the tools, techniques, and training space they need to keep the community safe and stay one step ahead in critical situations.

By investing in infrastructure that supports real-world readiness, Houston is taking bold steps toward a more prepared and professionally equipped police force—one capable of responding swiftly and effectively to threats while upholding the highest standards of law enforcement.