FRANKLIN, Tenn.—Williamson County has officially broken ground on a major public‑safety investment: a 230,000‑square‑foot Adult Detention Center designed to replace the county’s aging jail and meet the needs of one of Tennessee’s fastest‑growing communities. The project is being delivered by BELL Construction in partnership with the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, with architectural design by Gresham Smith and Treanor.
The new facility will feature 596 beds, 18 housing pods, and 260 prefabricated metal cells, significantly expanding capacity while modernizing operations. In addition to inmate housing, the center will include integrated court services, a full infirmary, mental‑health treatment areas, dental care, and dedicated staff support spaces—all aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and access to care.
A 70,000‑square‑foot parking garage with 156 secure stalls will support daily operations and reduce congestion around the campus. The design also incorporates indoor and outdoor recreation areas, streamlined intake and booking, and improved circulation for inmate movement.
County leaders described the project as a “milestone” for long‑term public safety, noting that the current facility no longer meets operational demands. With Williamson County’s population continuing to grow, the new center is intended to support modern correctional standards while reducing the need for off‑site transport through on‑site court functions.
Groundbreaking events took place in early June 2026, and construction is expected to continue through late 2028.
