Project Scope Whatcom County is seeking to build, on the same site, a new jail and behavioral health care center. The project will include programming for medical services, prosecutorial diversion space, behavioral health care, office space for the Sheriff’s department, and supplementary support buildings. The proposed justice center seeks to provide between 450-650 beds for individuals in custody. The County anticipates construction of the project to occur at a County-owned site in Ferndale, WA, which has already had some preliminary site due diligence activities completed, including a preliminary geotechnical report, wetland study, and a Conditional Use Permit with the local AHJ. Project Goals: • Design and build new state of the art justice and behavioral care center that maximizes goals of safety, therapeutic treatment, and project delivery within available budget. • Deliver a complete facility that is cost effective to operate and maintain and will serve the needs of Whatcom County for years to come. • Design and build thoughtful facilities that improve employee wellbeing and respond to the demanding work of the County staff. • Establish a project team that values mutual trust, respect, and accountability amongst all stakeholders. • Provide an environment that maximizes participation by the local workforce. • Set a benchmark for how alternative delivery projects can be successful for future Whatcom County capital projects.
