Contractors report jail expansion nearly complete; open house set for Jan. 20

County project managers and contractors updated the Board of County Commissioners Dec. 18 on progress at the jail expansion and renovation project, reporting major site and interior work is nearly complete and an open house is scheduled for Jan. 20.

Paul Fernandez of Ajax Builders and Joe Murat of Secure Texture told commissioners that site work for Unit Pod C and Building A is essentially complete — the east parking lot and curbing are done, temporary parking created on flattened spoil from a retention pond, and perimeter sodding and hydroseeding are scheduled. Fernandez said interior punch-list work is about three-quarters complete and the architect is reviewing remaining items. "We are also in the process of doing our final testing and balancing and troubleshooting any of the mechanical and electrical equipment systems," Fernandez said.

Secure Texture's Murat said extensive punch-list inspections in October and November produced a long item list that the team is closing out this week and expects a few minor remaining items at final inspection. Contractors said building finishes — polished floors, glass in cells, trims, and control-room equipment — are in place and staff are completing final cleaning and system testing in order to obtain a certificate of occupancy.

Commissioners toured the facility recently and praised progress; staff noted the county will not be present for the Jan. 20 open house because of scheduled travel but encouraged commissioners and community members to attend. Contractors said they expect to finish outstanding items by the end of the week and will coordinate final inspections with the building department.