Vigo County Sheriff’s Office and Jail

Built in 1980 and expanded in 2000, the sheriff’s office and jail experienced overcrowding, which led to pending lawsuits in the federal and state courts. To address their significant needs, the Vigo County Board of Commissioners solicited a request to develop a comprehensive Feasibility Study and Facility Assessment for the Vigo County Sheriff’s Office and Jail. Four firms submitted proposals, and DLZ was selected based on their extensive experience and knowledge in Indiana correctional studies, assessments, and design.

DLZ developed the study through inmate data from the jail, interviewing the Vigo County justice system, and inspecting the current facility. Their findings led to the development of a needs assessment and projection for the next 20 years.

DLZ presented the study and assessment in multiple public meetings, including commissioners, council, public forum, and Taxpayers Association. DLZ recommended a new sheriff’s office, training center, a 505 rated bed jail, and associated spaces. The study also emphasized the need to address a diversion program, mental health and medical needs, and the importance of rehabilitating the in-custody inmates.

After the study, the commissioners interviewed three firms to design the new $55M hard construction Vigo County Security Center. DLZ was selected again to provide architecture and engineering services. Garmong Construction Services serves as the construction manager. Working closely with the sheriff’s office, commissioners, and the construction manager, DLZ  designed the new 142,300 square foot Vigo County Sheriff’s Office and Jail, which is currently under construction.

The facility will be a model detention facility. It will address first-hand the many problems that correctional facilities face today through proactive design solutions such as normalizing spaces through more daylighting, alternative color schemes, additional program classrooms, and colorful detention equipment/furnishings.