Mono County Celebrates Groundbreaking for New Jail Facility

BRIDGEPORT, CA - September 2, 2025 - Mono County officials today celebrated a significant milestone in public safety with a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Mono County Jail. The new facility, located at 221 Twin Lakes Road in Bridgeport, will replace the county's outdated jail and provide a modern, secure, and rehabilitative environment that meets the needs of the criminal justice system.

The new jail project has been a long-planned initiative, designed to align with modern correctional standards and address the county's requirements under Assembly Bill 109. This state law shifts the responsibility for certain offenders from state prisons to local jurisdictions. The facility will have a total of approximately 50 beds

The new facility is designed to improve support for inmates and staff alike. It will feature multiple housing units with dayrooms and fully enclosed outdoor recreation space, as well as new intake and release areas. On-site medical, kitchen, and laundry facilities will also be available to provide comprehensive support.

"This is a pivotal moment for Mono County," said Supervisor Peters (District 4). "The new jail is a necessary investment in our public safety infrastructure. It is a modern facility that will allow our law enforcement and public safety personnel to operate safer and more effectively while also meeting the state mandates for our inmate population. This project has been a critical need for Mono County and will serve our community for decades to come."

Sheriff Braun echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the broader impact of the project. "The new jail will not only improve our operations but also allow us to offer better rehabilitation programs in a safer environment. It is a step forward for our community and a reflection of our commitment to a fair and just system."

The project is estimated to cost approximately $30.5 Million and will span approximately 27,000 square feet. The construction phase is also expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, with the project creating a number of local jobs for skilled workers and laborers. The project is expected to be finished by Fall 2027.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by representatives from the Mono County Board of Supervisors, Public Works Department, Sheriff's Office, and various project contractors and vendors. A traditional shovel-ready photo opportunity marked the official start of construction.

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