History

The Alachua County Jail's origins can be traced back to 1880, when the county commissioners authorized the construction of a new jail. The original jail was a wooden structure located on the site of the present-day jail. It had two cells and was used to house both male and female prisoners.

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In 1906, the jail was expanded to include an additional two cells. The jail continued to operate in this form until 1930, when it was replaced by a new brick and concrete structure.

The New Jail (1930-1970)

The new jail was built on the same site as the original jail. It was a two-story structure with 64 cells. The jail also included a kitchen, a dining room, and a laundry room.

The new jail was a significant improvement over the old jail. It was larger, more secure, and more sanitary. The jail also had better ventilation and lighting.

The new jail served Alachua County for nearly 40 years. During that time, the jail's population grew steadily. By 1970, the jail was overcrowded and inadequate.

The Current Jail (1970-Present)

In 1970, the Alachua County commissioners approved the construction of a new jail. The new jail was built on a new site on West University Avenue. It was a three-story structure with 256 cells. The jail also included a new kitchen, a new dining room, and a new laundry room.

The new jail was opened in 1972. It was a significant improvement over the old jail. It was larger, more secure, and more modern. The jail also had better ventilation and lighting.

The current jail has served Alachua County for over 50 years. During that time, the jail's population has continued to grow. The jail is now overcrowded and inadequate.

Future of the Alachua County Jail

The Alachua County commissioners are currently considering plans for a new jail. The new jail would be located on a new site on Southwest 20th Avenue. It would be a four-story structure with 512 cells. The jail would also include a new kitchen, a new dining room, and a new laundry room.

The new jail is scheduled to open in 2025. It will be a significant improvement over the current jail. It will be larger, more secure, and more modern. The jail will also have better ventilation and lighting.

The new jail will help Alachua County to meet the needs of its growing population. It will also help to improve the safety of the community.

Notable Events in Alachua County Jail History

• 1880: The original Alachua County Jail is built.
• 1906: The jail is expanded to include two additional cells.
• 1930: A new brick and concrete jail is built to replace the original jail.
• 1970: The current jail is built on a new site on West University Avenue.
• 1972: The current jail opens.
• 2008: The jail is expanded to include a new 64-bed dormitory.
• 2019: The jail is placed on lockdown after a riot.
• 2023: The Alachua County commissioners approve plans for a new jail.