Butler County officials expect the new county prison to be open July 1.

Warden Rich Gigliotti said at today's prison board meeting with initial completion of construction still set for April 15 and final completion for May 15, there's sufficient time to be operational at the start of July.

"We're hinging everything on that," Gigliotti said about the completion dates scheduled by project general contractor Rycon Construction of Pittsburgh.

Pat Stone of Massaro Corp., the Pittsburgh firm serving as construction manager, said workers are putting the last touches on the South Washington Street building.

Along with carpet being laid, plumbing and fire equipment are being tested.

"At this time, it's pretty much finished," Stone said.

Between 25 and 30 workers are at the construction site daily.

Stone said various building approvals are pending multiple inspections, including the state Department of Health touring the prison kitchen and laundry room.

"We're into the last minute type of stuff," he said.