The Santa Rita Jail Critical Operations Project is being delivered through a joint venture design-build partnership with Broward Builders and Arrington Watkins Architects. Spanning five years, the project is upgrading one of the largest jails in the country while the nearly 980,000-square-foot facility remains operational.
Originally opened in 1989, the facility is undergoing improvements across nine major scopes, including generator replacement, a new water tank and water line upgrades, full replacement of building management and security electronic systems. This scope also includes fire life safety improvements, detention door and hardware replacements across housing and visitation areas, HVAC upgrades, interior ring road reconstruction, low voltage systems, and roof replacements at multiple housing units.
All work is being performed within the active facility, requiring carefully planned sequencing and precise coordination to maintain uninterrupted operations. These upgrades will strengthen critical infrastructure, enhance safety and security for inmates and staff, and position the facility to better support long-term operations and rehabilitation.
