MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — After a series of controversial incidents—including inmate deaths, concerns over inhumane conditions, and a shortage of mental health resources—the Bibb County Jail is undergoing a significant expansion. The project aims to address longstanding issues inside the jail and improve care for inmates, particularly those with behavioral health needs. On Thursday morning, local leaders gathered for the official groundbreaking ceremony, marking the start of a multimillion-dollar effort to upgrade the facility. The expansion is planned in three phases. Phase one, already complete, saw the demolition of the James F. Higgins Memorial Complex to make way for new parking. Phase two, now underway, focuses on renovating the jail’s interior. New housing units designed for inmates with mental health challenges will be added, and River Edge Behavioral Health is partnering with the jail to provide expanded services. “You’re going to have dedicated space that is warm, welcoming, and inviting for the inmates,” said Cass Hatcher, CEO of River Edge Behavioral Health. “So, when the inmates are being treated, they will basically be able to recover from whatever mental illness that they have.” Hatcher emphasized that support doesn’t end at the jail doors. “They can come to River Edge Services. We continue that continual care, so once they are discharged, they don’t just go back into the street. They can come back and help see River Edge to provide additional services,”…
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