Lorain County commissioners on Nov. 7 approved a contract with Granger Construction Co., Columbus, for preconstruction-phase services on a proposed correctional facility. The contract, described in the meeting packet as totaling $113,740, covers duties including cost estimating, budgeting, value engineering and scheduling to align the design to the county's program and current budget.

Commissioners and staff said the preconstruction work is intended to produce realistic, construction‑ready cost estimates and design options so the county will be prepared to pursue outside funding should state or federal dollars become available. County officials said the approach is to avoid designing a building that exceeds the available budget and then having to redesign it after bids come in.

Commissioners described prior planning steps, including a previous board’s $20 million set‑aside and the county’s intent to be ‘‘shovel ready’’ so it can move quickly if grants or other assistance becomes available. They said the county will continue to discuss financing options—bonding, grants and other revenue sources—during the budgeting process and outreach to state officials.

The motion to approve the Granger preconstruction contract was moved, seconded and carried by recorded voice vote.