BEMIDJI, Minn.—Beltrami County’s ambitious $80 million Adult Corrections Center project is moving forward with steady progress, promising a transformative upgrade to the region’s correctional infrastructure. The new facility, located at 815 Pioneer St. SE in Bemidji’s Industrial Park, broke ground in September 2024 and is slated for completion by March 2027.
Designed by Klein McCarthy Architects, the 243-bed jail emphasizes safety, rehabilitation, and operational efficiency. Kraus-Anderson Construction Company is overseeing the build as Construction Manager at Risk, with foundational walls and precast panels already in place ahead of schedule.
The project is funded through a 0.625% local option sales tax approved by voters and remains under budget, with approximately $2.3 million in contingency funds still available. Early change orders have delivered cost savings without compromising quality or scope.
In a related move, the Beltrami County Board voted to demolish the existing downtown jail once the new facility is operational. The demolition, estimated at just over $6 million, will clear the way for a new parking area and a secure sally port serving the adjacent Judicial Center.
Officials say the new jail will address longstanding issues of overcrowding and outdated infrastructure while preparing the county for future growth. The project reflects a broader commitment to modern correctional standards and community safety.
As construction continues, county leaders and project managers remain optimistic about meeting deadlines and maintaining fiscal discipline. The new facility is expected to serve as a model for rural justice infrastructure across Minnesota.
Klein McCarthy Architects, a Minnesota-based firm with deep expertise in justice architecture, has led the design process with a focus on modern correctional standards. Their plans incorporate natural light, secure circulation, and rehabilitative spaces that reflect evolving philosophies in incarceration. The firm has worked closely with county officials to ensure the facility meets both current needs and future demands.
Kraus-Anderson Construction Company, one of the region’s most experienced builders in public infrastructure, is managing the construction from its Bemidji office. Project lead Steve Trudeau has emphasized transparency and community engagement throughout the process. The company’s track record in correctional facility construction has helped keep the project on schedule and under budget.
Together, the design and construction teams are delivering a facility that balances safety, efficiency, and long-term value for Beltrami County residents.
Photo Credit: Klein McCarthy Architects
