Commissioners plan for new Vigo Co. Jail to land on S.R. 63

Former International Paper property is owned by the county/Lucy Perry photo

Sheriff Ewing/ ICN file photo

​By Lucy Perry
Indiana Central News

TERRE HAUTE–  After previously withrawing intent to build a new Vigo County Jail on the former International Paper property in Terre Haute, local officials stated yesterday that the idea has once again captured their interest.

The Vigo County Commissioners informed the public yesterday about their intent to secure approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals to utilize the 64-acre property, located just off SR 63, for the future security annex location. 

According to a press release, the new security annex will include the sheriff’s department, jail and beautification plans to clean up the area currently owned by the county. The land has been unused for several years --- after the paper mill shut down at the end of 2007.

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Commissioner Jon Marvel said the decision on a location didn't come easily, noting that, since the land is already owned by the county, no additional cost to taxpayers was a big part of the site consideration.

Although the current and outdated jail is adjacent to the courthouse, the just over one - mile trip expected at the new site made the location ideal for Vigo County Sheriff Greg Ewing.

“I know it’s been a tough journey for county leadership and our community to advance plans for a new jail," stated  Sheriff  Ewing in the press release. "I’m pleased the Commissioners have chosen a location for the annex that will stay close to the current site and help bring new development to a vacant location in our community.”
 
Local residents have been vocal in opposition to the site choice from the beginning of talks on a new jail, which began following federal lawsuits regarding substandard conditions at the current facility.

Some state they want the new jail to be built closer to the courthouse. Some oppose the site because it's located just across the street from the Vigo County Aquatic Center and Voorhees Park. Others oppose the location choice due to its proximity to the Wabash River  --- which they'd like to see used for possible other business and recreational development options.

However, the Commissioners are claiming to envision potential future riverfront projects down the road, as well.

"The security annex is a project we believe will help ignite future economic activity," Commissioner Judy Anderson said.

According to the press release  Marvel,  Anderson and  Commissioner Brad Anderson are planning to work with Mayor Duke Bennett and the City of Terre Haute to fund an update of the Wabash River Economic Development Plan, facilitated by the West Central Indiana Economic Development District. 

Final information on the size and cost of the more than $60 million security annex is expected to be released soon. A federal court deadline for the project timeline is due Oct. 15.