Lancaster County detention center about 53% complete; officials say project remains on budget

County project staff told Lancaster County Council that construction of the new detention center is proceeding on schedule and remains within the project budget.

"We're roughly 53% complete with the project," Chad Catledge said, reporting that roof decking is installed, interior masonry and mechanical/electrical/plumbing rough‑ins are ongoing, site retaining walls are finished and exercise yard foundations have begun. He said construction costs to date total just under $40 million with soft costs slightly over $6 million — "so we're about 46 million into our 90,000,000 and still holding well on our budget," he said.

Catledge highlighted milestones including roof dry‑in this week, a projected substantial completion in December and final turnover in January 2027. He also described ancillary work: extension of a 12‑inch water line to the site, a dedication agreement in progress with Langston County Water and Sewer, and a roadway‑widening project expected to complete in August that will add a turning lane to the detention center entrance.

Council members asked about landscaping, entrance consolidation and parking aesthetics; Catledge said the plan consolidates separate construction exits into a single, heavily landscaped entrance and noted staff will arrange a site walk for council members later in the month.

No formal motions or votes were taken on the project at this meeting; council requested a site visit and ongoing updates on budget and schedule.