Great Lakes Wire

A Michigan State Police commander has provided updates regarding the amenities at the Michigan State Police Training Academy in Dimondale.

The facility renovations by the Michigan State Police (MSP) coincide with the efforts  for new members of the department to receive enhanced training, according to a news release issued by MSP.  

“Starting with the main entrance itself, you will notice a difference,” said Capt. James Grady, commander of the Training Division. “We wanted to ensure the building was easily accessible to everyone, so we now have a ramp at our main entrance, as well as new entry stairs. We teach that first impressions matter. We think our new entrance reflects that.”

Sgt. Brian Kinaschuk, with the Wellness and First Aid Unit staff, said the new building will allow staff to develop more functional training that will better prepare probationary troopers for the demands of the job.

According to Kinaschuk, “We teach proper lifting techniques and can assist with developing personalized strength and conditioning programs. There’s also an element of injury rehab with the new setup. Trainers have more resources to get people back to 100%.”

Lt. Nick Darlington, with the Precision Driving Unit, added that the track was renovated to increase safety for staff and students during training.

“These changes include the regrading of shoulders and ditch lines, and the addition of gravel traps which prevent tripping hazards should an off-road excursion occur," he said. "For added safety we’re also in the process of constructing tire walls in strategic portions of the track.” 

The department is also in the conceptual stage of planning its own outdoor shooting range in the future that will include a 100-yard rifle range, two 50-yard pistol ranges and a 360-degree range with room for a classroom, a live fire ballistic shoot house and expansion.