Jail Annex Renovation Advances, County Preserving Historic Asset Through Collaborative Effort

• 22 April 2026
• Category: Enhance Conservation Community Trust SJC News
• Tags: 2026

Project reflects collaboration, community input, and commitment to cultural preservation

The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners has approved a contract to move forward with the renovation of the County’s Jail Annex (PDF), marking a major milestone in a community-informed effort to preserve a historically significant structure while maximizing public assets.

The approved project reflects months of coordination between St. Johns County’s Infrastructure Delivery Team, as well as St. Johns County Facilities Management, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, and the Cultural Resource Review Board.

The project would not have been possible without meaningful input from residents and stakeholders following earlier discussions about the building’s future.

“This project represents the very best of St. Johns County government working together with our community,” said Joy Andrews, St. Johns County Administrator. “We listened carefully, evaluated all options, and ultimately identified a path forward that preserves an important piece of our history while ensuring the facility continues to serve a functional purpose for our residents.”

Originally constructed in the 1950s, the Jail Annex has long been part of the County’s public safety infrastructure and holds historical significance, including its connection to the Civil Rights Movement. Notably, Martin Luther King Jr. was held at the facility in 1964 during demonstrations in St. Augustine, placing the site within a pivotal chapter of American history.

Previous consideration of demolition prompted strong public interest and dialogue, reinforcing the importance of transparency and community engagement in the decision-making process.

“The Sheriff’s Office is proud to partner with the County on a solution that both respects the building’s legacy and supports our operational needs,” said Sheriff Robert Hardwick. “This outcome reflects a thoughtful balance between preservation and progress.”

“This renovation demonstrates how strategic investment and collaboration can extend the life of existing infrastructure while honoring its historical value,” said Dan Whitcraft, St. Johns County Facilities Director.

The Cultural Resource Review Board played a key role in evaluating the building’s historical significance and advising on preservation considerations.

“This is a meaningful step forward in protecting a site that holds deep historical and cultural importance in our community,” said Cultural Resource Review Board Chair Susan Schjelderup. “Preserving structures like the Jail Annex helps ensure that future generations understand and appreciate our shared history.”

The Jail Annex Renovation project directly supports key priorities outlined in the County’s Strategic Plan, including efforts to enhance Community Trust through transparency and public engagement, and to Enhance Conservation by protecting cultural and historical resources.

Similar to the County’s recent preservation and relocation of the historic Canright House, this project reflects St. Johns County’s ongoing commitment to protecting and elevating sites that define its Civil Rights-era heritage.