Yellowstone County is undertaking a strategic expansion of its detention infrastructure to address persistent overcrowding and enhance public safety. The project involves the construction of a two-story, 9,120 square foot short-term holding addition to the existing Yellowstone County Detention Center.
This new facility, estimated at $6 million, is designed to accommodate individuals for up to 72 hours while they await arraignment. It will serve as a critical buffer for the main detention center, which frequently exceeds its 434-bed capacity, often requiring law enforcement to release individuals with a notice to appear due to space limitations.
The purpose is temporary holding for individuals arrested on weekends or for non-violent offenses, allowing for proper processing before arraignment. Designed to house approximately 33 inmates. The modular addition is a proactive solution to Yellowstone County’s long-standing jail overcrowding issue. By providing short-term holding space, the facility will relieve pressure on the main jail and support law enforcement in maintaining custody of individuals who might otherwise be prematurely released. Its flexible design ensures adaptability to future needs, aligning with the county’s commitment to sustainable and responsive public safety infrastructure.
