The Illinois State Police Academy was constructed in
Springfield, Illinois, in 1968. A large addition was added in 1972,
making the building self-contained for housing and training. This
complex, which sits on approximately four acres of ground, represents
the first permanent home for cadet training. The first class to graduate
was Cadet Class 51 in November 1973. Prior to the Academy's construction,
most of ISP's training was conducted at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
The Academy has undergone several changes through the
years. The facility now includes 280 beds, a gymnasium with free weights
and state-of-the-art exercise equipment, video and computer accessibility,
and a full-service cafeteria which serves approximately 37,000 meals
per year. Externally, the Academy has received a new look with landscaping,
a welcome sign, storage buildings and a one-quarter mile running track
located on the Academy's west side.
In 2002, a 9,000 square foot addition was constructed on the Academy's south side. The addition includes a 100 seat state-of-the-art theater style classroom along with several administrative offices and conference rooms. Also included during this expansion was the construction of a 5,000 square foot forensic lab on the north end of the Academy. This complex houses the "Combined DNA Index System" (CODIS).
The Academy also includes the Pawnee Training Facility,
a 100 acre complex ten miles south of the main facility, which was
completed in the fall of 1988. This is where K-9 training, a track
for Emergency Vehicle Operation Course, and firearm ranges are located.
Various trainings are also conducted at ISP District Chicago Headquarters.
Additionally, the Academy has implemented distance learning and interactive
communication capabilities with sites at the ISP Academy, District
Chicago, District 13 (Marion), and District 11 (Collinsville). Together,
these entities comprise the framework for ISP training.
