The former SDPD headquarters had been shuttered for nearly 17 years.  Now, through the creative visions of developers, the facility has been reopened and re-purposed into a retail wonderland.

Today, the emporium features San Diego-local storefronts, open spaces and a variety of top-notch restaurants.

Some tenants felt the opportunity to rent space in the historic building was too good an opportunity to pass up.  They saw the still-wavering economy as a solid bargaining chip when it came to negotiating the terms of their lease.

On the flip side of that coin, the competition pool was strong enough that it allowed landlords to choose the best of the best.

Today, the former home of the SDPD is now known as the Headquarters at Seaport Village.

Tenants are saying they love the vibe and feel of the old building, and many have left some of the former police relics stand just the way they are.  They feel it ads to the space's charm and appeal.   Some have kept partial staircases, others have left hooks hanging on walls.

Shoppers who enter the courtyard are met by fountains, iron grill work and ceramic tile art.

Also of note is the Simply Local Emporium, a space which allows local artists a place to sell their wares.  Developers have said that many of these merchants wouldn't have an opportunity to sell in the Gaslamp retail district.  The emporium, they said, provides a wonderful opportunity for them to connect with tourists.

The former SDPD building is reportedly open to shoppers on Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.  There is ample parking in the Seaport Village lot and parking is just $3 for the first two hours with a $10 purchase and in-store validation.

The Headquarters invites all San Diegans, their friends and guests to check out the revamped space.  And while you're there, they said, don't forget to check out the SDPD exhibit in the southeastern portion of the quadrant.