Warwick to Reopen Police Shooting Range in November

The town will begin mandatory firearms training at the Mid-Orange Correctional Facility on November 2, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Law Enforcement

Warwick to Reopen Police Shooting Range in November

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Warwick police will begin conducting mandatory firearms qualifications at a newly reopened shooting range at the Mid-Orange Correctional Facility. The first training sessions are scheduled to take place from Nov. 2 through Nov. 5, 2026.

Why it matters

The town aims to achieve greater self-sufficiency in police training while reducing the high travel costs associated with using external facilities. By keeping operations local, Warwick seeks to eliminate expenditures reaching $13,000 per training event.

Warwick employs 32 police officers who are required to complete mandatory firearms qualifications at least twice per year. Seven to 10 officers are expected to participate in the training sessions each day.

The players

Town of Warwick

This local government authority manages the police department and the public park grounds where the shooting range is located.

Orange County Sheriff's Office

This regional law enforcement agency currently hosts Warwick police officers for their mandatory firearm qualifications.

The details

The town is converting a pre-built prison guard shooting range on the grounds of the former correctional facility, which is currently used as a park. Although certain parts of the park will be closed during the 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. training hours, the area will remain open to the public.

Nov. 2 through Nov. 5, 2026, marks the initial training sessions.
Training sessions are scheduled from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Legal Context

The reopening follows the state's move to shutter the Mid-Orange Correctional Facility, creating a repurposing opportunity for local municipalities. This mirrors a broader trend of towns reclaiming decommissioned state property to consolidate essential public services.

Residents should be aware that portions of the park will be temporarily closed during daily training sessions from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. While the park remains accessible, visitors may encounter activity associated with the police range during these hours.

The takeaway

Utilizing existing facilities allows the town to optimize its budget by cutting significant travel expenses for mandatory training. Officials will monitor the initial November session to ensure the dual-use of the park property remains safe for the public.