FAQs

The current facility no longer has enough space or functional layout to support daily operations. The facility has an estimated remaining lifespan of 3–5 years and shows significant structural concerns, including shifting and cracking.

• In addition to escalating maintenance needs, these issues impact safety, staffing, and the ability to provide consistent programming
• The County regularly houses individuals in other counties due to limited capacity, further increasing costs and logistical challenges
• The County is choosing to act now rather than wait for these issues to become more urgent

Decided:

A new Jail and Justice Complex is being planned, and a community engagement process is underway

Still being evaluated:

Location, design, size, services and programming, timeline, and funding approach

Input will be gathered through partner focus groups, community engagement sessions, and an online survey.

Community input will help identify key concerns, questions, and priorities to inform future planning and may help foster partnerships for future programming and related services.

Final decisions will be made by the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners.

• Attend a community engagement session
• Participate in a stakeholder group discussion
• Invite relatives, neighbors, or associates with experience related to justice facilities to participate in engagement sessions or group discussions
• Complete the online survey
• Watch for updates from the County and Board of Commissioners
• Sign up below to be notified about updates