Macon-Bibb County Approves Architect for Law Enforcement Center Expansion

MACON, Ga. – On Tuesday, September 23, the Macon-Bibb County Commission approved hiring Georgia-based Jericho Design Group to lead the design of an expansion and renovation of the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center.

The project, part of the county’s broader justice reform initiatives, will be completed in three phases. The first phase includes demolishing an existing building for parking, the second will renovate portions of the current jail, including the infirmary, and the final phase will construct a new maximum-security housing pod.

“This is a temporary fix for a long-term solution,” said SPLOST Director Clay Murphey. “The idea was, what can we do to this expansion that allows it to be used going forward in a potential new jail?”

Sheriff David Davis highlighted the benefits of the expansion: “These preliminary plans are a significant step in the right direction because we have cells that will help those that are chronically ill and mentally ill, plus a maximum-security option for disruptive inmates. I like the technology this company brings.”

The new facility will include up to 150 beds, with 96 for maximum-security inmates and 24 designated for those with mental health challenges. Construction is expected to take 14 to 16 months and cost between $28.5 million and $31 million.

Mayor Lester Miller emphasized the broader impact of the project: “These new initiatives, along with this expansion, will strengthen mental health support and improve maximum security,” adding that the renovations support six major justice reform initiatives aimed at improving safety, health, and justice outcomes across Macon-Bibb County.