Fond du Lac County Approves Jail Design Work, Population Study

Supervisors vote to move forward with schematic designs and a feasibility analysis for a potential new county jail.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

In a 17-5 vote, the Fond du Lac County Board of Supervisors approved moving forward with schematic designs for a potential new county jail project. They also greenlit a study into the current jail population to determine the needed capacity and explore diversion programs.

Why it matters

The current county jail faces aging infrastructure, safety concerns, and overcrowding issues that require action to remain compliant with state regulations. Exploring options for a new facility and jail population management strategies could help address these challenges.

The details

Venture Architects, LLC will develop schematic designs for two potential new jail locations: across from the current facility on Western Avenue and on a vacant lot on Scott Road near the county highway department. Meanwhile, Just Us Service Group, LLC will conduct a study to analyze the current jail population and determine the appropriate size and feasibility of a new jail, as well as potential diversion programs to help manage the inmate population.

  • On February 18, 2026, the Fond du Lac County Board of Supervisors voted 17-5 to approve the schematic design work and jail population study.
  • The schematic design work and jail population study are expected to cost the county approximately $211,250 and will be funded through the contingency fund for major projects.

The players

Fond du Lac County Board of Supervisors

The governing body of Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin that voted to move forward with the jail project and population study.

Venture Architects, LLC

The architecture firm that will develop schematic designs for potential new jail locations in Fond du Lac County.

Just Us Service Group, LLC

The company that will conduct a study on the current Fond du Lac County jail population to help determine the appropriate size and feasibility of a new facility, as well as explore potential diversion programs.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.