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Lewis and Clark County jail upgrades about to enter renovation phase

Posted at 10:31 AM, May 10, 2019
and last updated 2019-05-10 12:31:51-04

MTN News got a closer look at the county detention center, which is in the midst of an $8.3 million renovation.

On Thursday, Lewis and Clark County Commissioners and Sheriff Leo Dutton toured the jail as the demolition phase ends and the renovation phase begins.

Cameras were not allowed inside due to security concerns.

According to Sletten Construction, the project is on track to be done by spring of 2020. The renovations will upgrade capacity from 80 to 156 beds.

County data show overflow prisoners cost taxpayers more than $250,000 each year.

In 2016, voters approved a bond to address overcrowding at the law enforcement center.

-Reported by Evelyn Schultz/MTN News