Wood County Inmates Move into New Jail as Courthouse Atrium Opens

Big Changes for Wood County

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — Wood County has opened a new jail after two years of building and planning. The county also added a new entrance to the courthouse. This makes the courthouse safer and easier to use.

Inmates Move to New Jail

On Saturday, Wood County Sheriff Shawn Becker and Jail Administrator Lt. Ted Ashbeck moved about 100 inmates to the new jail. The move went smoothly. The staff will now learn how to work in the modern jail.

Some inmates were staying at the Waupaca County Jail. They will return to Wood County by April 1. This will save time and money on transport.

New Courthouse Entrance

Starting Monday, visitors will enter the courthouse through a new three-story atrium. The entrance connects the old and new buildings.

Turn right to go to the Wood County Sheriff’s Office.
Turn left to go to county offices in the old courthouse.

Elevators and stairs help visitors reach all three floors.

Better Facilities and Future Plans

The new Wood County Board room is already being used for meetings. The new space will make government and court work more efficient.

The county will now remove the old jail. First, they will recycle some materials. Then, they will take the rest of the building down.

Parking Solutions

Parking will be difficult while the old jail is being removed. Sheriff Becker said they have plans to help:

A special lot across from the courthouse will be open.
Visitors can still use the Baker Street parking lot.
More parking will be added in the future.

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Why This Matters

Sheriff Becker said the new jail is a smart decision. Wood County will not need to send inmates to other jails anymore. The new buildings will make the county safer, more efficient, and save money.

The final construction work should be done next year.