Montgomery County Approves $220M Jail/Justice Ctr

Montgomery County Commissioners Court has officially approved a sweeping $220 million construction initiative to address the county’s burgeoning population and judicial demands, greenlighting the development of a new county jail and a justice center. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, marks a critical step in a project anticipated to reshape the county’s public safety and legal infrastructure for decades.

The plan allocates approximately $160 million for a state-of-the-art jail facility designed to house 1,500 inmates initially, with the foresight to expand to 2,000 beds as needed. The remaining $60 million is earmarked for a new justice center, which will significantly upgrade the county’s legal capacity with 12 new courtrooms. This center will also provide modern offices for various key legal departments, including the District and County Courts, the District Attorney’s office, and the County Attorney’s office.

Funding for the ambitious project predominantly stems from a $200 million bond package that Montgomery County voters overwhelmingly approved in November 2023, passing with a significant 62% of the vote. An additional $20 million will be drawn from the county’s existing cash reserves, demonstrating a commitment to fiscal responsibility while addressing urgent needs. Both new facilities are slated for construction on a strategically chosen 100-acre site along Airport Road, near County Road 134 in Conroe, offering ample space for future expansion and improved accessibility.

Sheriff Rand Henderson has been a vocal proponent of the new jail, underscoring the severe operational challenges posed by the existing facility. “Our current jail is consistently operating at 120-130% of its intended capacity, often forcing us to house up to 200 inmates daily in other counties,” Sheriff Henderson stated, highlighting the substantial financial burden this places on taxpayers. “This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical strain on our budget, costing Montgomery County taxpayers an estimated $3 million to $5 million annually in transport and housing fees alone. A new, larger facility is not just an option, it’s an immediate necessity to manage our inmate population efficiently and responsibly.” The current jail, largely dating back to the 1980s, struggles with outdated infrastructure and limited space, making it challenging to implement modern correctional practices and provide adequate inmate services.

County Judge Mark Keough echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the proactive nature of the investment. “Montgomery County is one of the fastest-growing regions in the nation, as U.S. Census Bureau data consistently shows,” Judge Keough noted. “These projects are not merely about today’s needs but are critical for managing the expected population boom and corresponding demands on our judicial system over the next 20 to 30 years. This is a long-term investment in the safety and functionality of our community.”

The new justice center’s 12 additional courtrooms are expected to alleviate significant case backlogs that have accumulated due to the county’s rapid growth and limited judicial space. Legal professionals anticipate that the expanded capacity will lead to more timely trials, reduced delays in legal proceedings, and improved access to justice for residents. The centralized offices for legal departments will also foster greater collaboration and operational efficiency.

The project management is being expertly handled by Broaddus & Associates, a firm renowned for its experience in large-scale public infrastructure projects, while DLR Group is providing the architectural services. Their design plans are focusing on creating modern, secure, and efficient facilities that incorporate advanced technology and best practices in correctional and judicial design. These include improved security systems, more humane housing units, and dedicated spaces for mental health services within the jail, as well as integrated technology for virtual proceedings and efficient data management in the justice center.

While design work is currently underway, construction is projected to begin in the summer of 2025. The ambitious timeline aims for the completion of both facilities by the summer of 2027. The project is expected to generate numerous local construction jobs and provide an economic boost during its multi-year development phase.

The Commissioners Court’s decision solidifies the county’s commitment to providing adequate public safety and judicial resources, ensuring that Montgomery County’s infrastructure can keep pace with its dynamic growth.