The cost for Lehighton to replace the fire escape at its police department building would come with a hefty price tag.

Borough engineer Vanessa Nedrick, of Remington & Vernik, told borough council on Monday it would cost $66,550 to replace the fire escape.

Afterward, borough fire Chief Pat Mriss said he wasn’t sure if it’s even necessary due to the level of occupancy.

Councilwoman Autumn Abelovsky said she wants police officers to have a secondary exit.

In July, Mayor Clark Ritter brought the matter to council’s attention and said the fire escape has become a safety concern.

Council President Grant Hunsicker said at that time that unfortunately, the funds aren’t there.

Then borough engineer Bruce Steigerwalt suggested to council that it find out what the capacity of the building is to see if they can’t eliminate the fire escape.