Santa Barbara County approves Northern Branch Jail expansion

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors has approved a design for the expansion of the Northern Branch Jail in Santa Maria. In a 4-0 vote, supervisors greenlit the addition of 1.5 housing units, which will provide approximately 384 new beds across six pods of 64 beds each.

The expansion is part of a broader restructuring of the county jail system. While the Main Jail in Santa Barbara is larger, its facilities are deteriorating. Consequently, the county plans to downsize the Main Jail to focus on intake services and shift capacity to the newer Northern Branch Jail facility.

The project, which involves a $138.65 million design-build contract with Sletten Construction Co, is expected to begin construction in 2027 with a target completion date of July 2029. Officials stated the new pods are designed to be more modern and humane, featuring increased access to natural light and more opportunities for inmate socialization by limiting high-security and restrictive housing areas.

The decision follows community debate. Supporters, including Sheriff Bill Brown, argue the expansion is essential to address overcrowding and ensure safety. Critics have expressed concerns regarding the project's cost and suggested funds be allocated to other areas amidst existing budget constraints.