New Wood County Jail Opened Tuesday

Thursday, December 19th, 2024 -- 9:01 AM

(Austin Schindler, WAOW) A project that's been in need for decades, in the process for 20 years, and in construction the past two has opened.

According to Austin Schindler, the new Wood County jail opened up on Tuesday where dozens showed up to celebrate the completion of construction, but also a facility that will keep the community safe.

"Teamwork. Absolute teamwork. Not one individual made this happen," said Sheriff Shawn Becker. The new facility has a 315 inmate capacity with four floors compared to the old jail that could only house 132 on their one floor.

"It's a jail, but every county needs one, and it's our responsibility to make sure we house the inmates safely and also proved an environment that's safe for our staff so they're willing to come to work," said Becker.

The project started out with a $62 million price tag a few years ago, but because of inflation, costs rose to around $98 million. The county however had no problem pushing the project through.

The new facility is set to open near early February.

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