Flathead County commissioners have finalized an owner’s representative agreement with a Missoula-based architecture firm to oversee construction of the new county jail.  

The contract was signed on March 24 by Chair Commissioner Brad Abell and on March 27 by Marie Wilson, owner and principal architect of In2itive Architect. The contract provides an hourly rate up to $852,739 to the firm, and an estimated $86,698 in reimbursable expenses. County Administrator Pete Melnick said the contract of $939,437 is in line with the county’s budget. 

The owner’s representative will advocate for the county’s interest during the project, ensuring all decisions are aligned with the county’s goals, budget and schedule. In2itive Architecture was hired by the county on Feb. 3. It has worked on a variety of projects across the state, including commercial, residential and educational buildings.  

Construction bids for the project are planned to go out on April 8 and are due back in May, according to the county's project manager Whitney Aschenwald. Construction is set to begin June 1.  

The estimated cost for construction is $93.5 million; architectural design is $5.82 million and $7.7 million for other soft costs, according to the contract. Project funding includes the $105 million bond passed by voters in November, bond investments and savings. 

Designs for the new 110,000-square-foot jail on Snowline Lane include capacity for approximately 184 general population inmate beds, with an operational capacity of 220 beds. There will also be a medical care unit, 42 special housing unit beds, a courtroom and space for the Sheriff’s Office. 

Report for America reporter Hannah Shields can be reached at (406) 758-4439 or [email protected]. If you value local journalism, pledge your support at dailyinterlake.com/support.