Plans underway to allow public a peek at new jail

As construction continues at the new Bourbon County Law Enforcement Center, officials are making plans to host the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Coffee on July 6.

By that time, contractors are hoping to have some of the finish work completed.

Commissioners attended a monthly progress meeting at the construction site Tuesday.

Gary Walker, project leader with Universal Construction Company Inc. of Lenexa, said the target date for the jail being “substantially” completed is Oct. 2, barring no complications.

In the meantime, plans are to have as much work ready for the coffee as is possible.

Bob Brassart with Universal Construction said painting in the pod areas should begin by Monday. After the painting is completed, the floors in those areas will be sealed. Painting in the sheriff’s office area should begin in about 30 days.

Also on Monday, a mason is expected to begin rock work on the exterior of the vestibule, with stucco to be completed after that. Brassart said the rock and stucco should be completed by the chamber coffee.

He said he doesn’t believe the doors will arrive in time to be installed prior to the coffee, but there at least would a temporary door on the vestibule.

By mid next week, paving will begin on the front parking lot and, depending on the weather, that also should be completed by July 2. He said the west parking lot most likely will not be completed by then.

“We’ll try to make it as clean looking as we can for the chamber (coffee). As long as the weather is alright, we’ll be alright,” Brassart said.

Sheriff Bill Martin said those attending the coffee will be able to tour the facility.

The plan is to have a dedication plaque ready for a future ribbon cutting ceremony, Walker said. Martin said the plaque will dedicate the jail to the citizens of Bourbon County and also have his name and the names of Undersheriff Ben Cole and Southeast Kansas Region Correctional Center Major Bobby Reed included.

“And then whatever you three decide,” Martin said to the commissioners.