CANTON, Ohio — Stark County officials marked a major milestone on August 15, with the groundbreaking of a $75 million jail expansion project—the largest public works initiative in county history. The ceremony, held in Canton, launched a sweeping modernization effort aimed at improving safety, mental health care, and operational efficiency within the county’s correctional system.
At the heart of the project is a new four-story, clover-leaf shaped pod-style housing unit designed to replace outdated linear cellblocks dating back to the 1960s. The innovative layout enhances visibility and security for both inmates and staff, reflecting a shift toward more humane and effective incarceration models.
Mental health care is a central focus of the expansion. The facility will include 144 beds dedicated to mental health needs—quadrupling the current capacity. Of those, 24 beds will serve acute cases, while 96 will accommodate medium-security inmates and 48 will be reserved for maximum-security individuals. Additional upgrades include a renovated clinic, expanded kitchen, and new healthcare facilities.
The project is being funded without new taxes or loans. Financing comes from savings generated by a 0.5% criminal justice sales tax and $35 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. County leaders emphasized fiscal responsibility and community investment throughout the planning process.
Local involvement is another key feature. More than 72% of the workforce is drawn from Stark County, and over $30 million in contracts have been awarded to local subcontractors. Among the firms contributing to the build are Beaver Constructors Inc. and Standard Plumbing & Heating Co., both based in Stark County.
Granger Construction of Lansing, Michigan, and Welty Building Company of Fairlawn, Ohio, are serving as construction managers-at-risk. Pauly Jail Building Co., a specialized firm from Indiana, received the largest single contract—nearly $12 million—for detention equipment and security electronics.
The design team includes K2M Design, with support from HOK of St. Louis and the construction managers. Completion is expected by January 2028, with inmates transitioning into the new facility shortly thereafter.
