Sarpy County approves $935K for Sarbanes Jail demolition with Beckenhauer construction

The Sarpy County Board meeting held on April 1, 2025, focused on a significant development regarding the demolition of the Sarpy County Jail and West Annex. Deputy Administrator Bonnie Moore presented the agenda item, highlighting the approval of a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) amendment with Beckenhauer Construction Inc. for the demolition project, set at $935,791.

Moore provided a historical overview of the jail's evolution, noting that prior to 1975, the jail was located on the top floor of Papillion City Hall. In 1975, it moved to the north end of the courthouse, where it remained until the construction of a new facility in 1989, which cost $5.7 million and had a capacity of 148 inmates. As the county's population grew significantly—from approximately 3,000 at the time of the original jail's construction to nearly 90,000 by 2021—the need for a new jail became evident. The current jail, built at a cost of $79.9 million, features innovative programming and a capacity of 364 beds.

The decision to demolish the 1989 jail comes as part of the county's ongoing efforts to adapt to its growing needs. The demolition will also include the West Annex, which sustained substantial damage from a storm in July 2024. Moore acknowledged that the demolition process would cause some disruption on the campus but assured that staff would manage traffic effectively during the 90-day project.

The method of demolition will involve excavators using specialized attachments to dismantle the building piece by piece, rather than through implosion. Moore confirmed that all salvageable materials have already been removed, and the HVAC units have been decommissioned.

This meeting marks a pivotal step in Sarpy County's infrastructure development, as the board moves forward with plans to enhance facilities in response to the community's growth.