Installation of Triple Bunks

Previously, our response to overcrowding was the addition of surplus military cots to each cell which originally was constructed and approved to house two inmates using a double bunk bed. In January, 2005, it was noted in our annual jail inspection report that the use of such cots significantly reduced the unencumbered living space as required by state jail standards and impeded egress from the cell in the event of an emergency. As a result of the inspection, permission was sought and obtained as an interim measure in response to our overcrowding situation to remove the double bunks and cots and to reinstall triple bunks. While it was noted that such permission did in no way change the jail's overall rated capacity as previously established by the state jail inspection division when the jail initially opened, it would "reopen" each cell' unencumbered floor space and provide unimpeded egress from the cell in the event of an emergency.

One hundred sixty eight triple bunks were ordered and installed at a total cost of $100,436.00. The rooms while routinely cleaned and maintained had not been repainted or repaired since the jail's original opening in July, 1994, totaling almost twelve years to date. As a result, while we were installing the triple bunk beds, it was decided that we would thoroughly clean; sanitize; and paint the rooms as necessary. Other than bolting the triple bunk beds to the floor, all work was performed by inmate workers who cleaned and painted the cells under the supervision of officers and staff and also helped assemble the beds prior to installation. The cost of paint brushes; rollers; and paint totaled $4,788.32.

Below are photographs showing the cleanliness of the cells before painting; the double bunks and the surplus military cots in use prior to their removal; and the finished results after each cell was cleaned; painted; and the new beds installed.

Before

After

Photos by Captain Mike Jones		Contractor Jerry Oyler