California Highway Patrol breaks ground for new facility as commander announces retirement

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - The California Highway Patrol (CHP) for the El Centro area arranged a retirement luncheon for their commander, Captain Scott Laverty and break ground for a new facility.

His retirement gathering was held on April 13.

Captain Laverty began his law enforcement career in 1992 and joined CHP in 2001.

"Having been a commander here in the Imperial Valley for nearly the past five years, this is bittersweet," said Captain Scott Laverty. "Especially after working on filling employee vacancies, equipment and a new facility that will better serve the people of California and the communities here in the Imperial Valley."

The groundbreaking event for the new facility happened last month on March 29 near the Imperial Valley facilities off of 4th Street in southern El Centro.

"As we move dirt here this morning, I am reminded of all those who have come before us and worked at our current facility. Now, this dirt that we move will create new history for those of you who are here now and those who will come after us in service to the public," said Captain Laverty.

CHP says the brand new facility is set to be completed by March 2023.