Oklahoma County’s New Jail Project Advances
Oklahoma County Commissioners have officially approved Flintco, LLC as the construction manager for the highly anticipated new county jail. This pivotal decision marks a significant stride toward replacing the severely outdated facility, promising a modern, safer, and more efficient environment for our community.
A Crucial Upgrade for Oklahoma County
The current Oklahoma County Jail, built in 1991 for just 1,200 inmates, routinely holds 1,700-1,800 people. This severe overcrowding fuels maintenance problems, safety hazards for staff and detainees, and hinders adequate service provision. A new facility has long been a critical need for public safety and justice system efficiency.
In 2022, Oklahoma County voters approved a $260 million bond issue for this essential upgrade. The contract with Flintco, LLC, set at a maximum of $297 million for construction management, ensures the project moves into tangible development, honoring public investment.
Flintco Takes the Helm: Project Details
The Chosen Contractor and Scope
Flintco, LLC, an experienced construction firm, is now tasked with managing the new jail’s development. Their role encompasses pre-construction planning, design coordination, and overseeing the entire build process, ensuring robust project management within the approved budget.
Key Features and Design
The new jail addresses current shortcomings with an initial capacity of 1,800 beds, expandable to 2,200. Its podular design enhances security, allows for better inmate classification, and facilitates efficient supervision. This is a significant improvement over the current linear layout.
The facility will prioritize significantly enhanced mental health and comprehensive medical care, aiming for a more humane environment. Improved infrastructure will also boost operational efficiency for staff. The location remains central, on the same block as the current jail, west of the existing building between Hudson and Harvey avenues.
Project Timeline and What’s Next
With the contractor onboard, the design phase will progress rapidly. Groundbreaking for the new Oklahoma County Jail is anticipated in Fall 2024. Construction is expected to span several years, with the facility projected to be fully operational by 2028. Residents can anticipate ongoing updates.
Comparing the Old and New Facilities
| Feature | Current Jail (Built 1991) | New Facility (Projected 2028) |
|---|---|---|
| Designed Capacity | 1,200 beds | 1,800 beds (expandable to 2,200) |
| Actual Occupancy | Routinely 1,700-1,800 | Matches designed capacity |
| Design Style | Linear, older infrastructure | Podular, modern infrastructure |
| Service Focus | Basic; limited mental/medical care | Enhanced mental health & medical care |
| Overall Condition | Outdated, significant maintenance issues | State-of-the-art, purpose-built |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is a new jail necessary?
The current facility is overcrowded, outdated, and poses significant safety and operational challenges for inmates and staff. - How is the project being funded?
Primarily by a $260 million bond issue approved by Oklahoma County voters in 2022, with additional funds covering total construction management. - What is the projected timeline for construction?
Groundbreaking is expected in Fall 2024, with the new jail anticipated to be completed and operational by 2028. - Where will the new jail be located?
On the same block as the current facility, situated on the west side between Hudson and Harvey avenues. - Will the new jail offer improved services?
Yes, the design emphasizes significantly enhanced mental health services, comprehensive medical care, and overall operational efficiency.
This major investment in our county’s infrastructure is a commitment to improving public safety, ensuring responsible use of taxpayer funds, and providing a more effective and humane justice facility for all Oklahoma County residents. Stay informed as our community watches this vital project take shape.
Oklahoma County New Jail Project Advances
