San Joaquin County is getting a new morgue.

A $25 million contract was awarded  Tuesday by the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors for Whiting-Turner Contracting Company to design-build the new medical examiner and morgue facility. 

It will replace the current morgue facility at the Sheriff’s Office Complex in French Camp.

 “With this award, the Board of Supervisors wants to ensure the San Joaquin County Medical Examiner’s office remains up to date, with proper space and equipment to allow them to best serve the residents of our county,” noted Board Chairman Robert Rickman. 

“The medical examiner’s work is vital for the families of San Joaquin County, whether it is to pursue justice or closure for those who have lost a loved one.  This new space will provide the best possible environment for both our employees and the members of the public we are committed to serve.”

The 18,000-square-foot one-story building is expected to break ground in November 2023.

It will take approximately 20 months to complete, with an expected delivery date of August 2025.

The design concept will provide a controlled environment for security with sufficient space for forensic equipment and adequate space for staff to efficiently complete tasks.

 Public spaces will be well defined and situated to meet necessary needs for access, information, privacy, and expression of grief.

The design encourages interaction among staff while assuring confidentiality when required; emphasizes the dignified handling of the decedent's remains and property while accommodating the needs of forensic investigation and chain of evidence; and provides a facility with the flexibility to efficiently accommodate change and future expansion. 

 Founded in 1909, Whiting-Turner is one of the country’s premier design-build construction contractors.  They have successfully delivered an impressive portfolio of high quality, efficient government and municipal facilities through innovation, collaboration, and industry best practices.

Based on the above listed factors, Whiting-Turner’s proposal is deemed the most advantageous and competitively superior for the County, which forms the basis for awarding the contract to Whiting-Turner for the Project.