The 1993 jail, built to serve a population of 1,224, was overcrowded by 1999. In the past eight years, Chatham County Detention Center has gone through two major projects. The first, a 400,000 square foot expansion nearly doubling the capacity of the facility, bringing the total number of detainee beds to 2,300. The second retrofitted the Detention Center’s existing Unit 5 and added a new K-9 building. The combined construction costs for both projects were approximately $96 million.
PSE provided design engineering and construction administration of security and telecommunications for the facility. The expansion required PSE to work closely with the architect and provide construction administration services to ensure the facilities new electronic security systems, perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDS), perimeter fencing, and tele/data communications systems worked as specified and designed. The second phase, which included Unit 5, allowed PSE to design enhancements to the newly upgraded electronic security systems, PIDS, perimeter fencing, and tele/data systems.
This project provides improved inmate and visitor screening through the use of “hands-off” sterile screening processes, over 1500 video surveillance cameras and card readers, complete high-security integrated door control and monitoring from Central and Local Control areas, and improved security communications throughout the building. A new hardened perimeter fence includes multiple layers of perimeter intrusion detection systems and “eyes-on-target” video capture.
Incorporating new IP technology allows this Justice Center to adapt to medical, social, and operational challenges in a technically efficient and compliant manner.
PSE has provided secure environments for detainees and inmates, enhancing the security of staff, visitors, community, and Chatham County as a whole through our designs and teamwork of the architect, Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, and County Executive.
