In-person visits at the Maguire Correctional Facility in San Mateo County are set to resume after repairs were completed on the jail’s only visitation elevator, authorities said.
The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office said visitation will resume on Friday morning, ending a suspension that had lasted several months due to a mechanical failure.
The elevator used for visits is more than 30 years old. The elevator, located in the non-secure portion of the jail, had been out of service since late June.
Sheriff Ken Binder said crews worked with maintenance contractors to restore the elevator.
“We recognize the importance of in-person visits and are thankful incarcerated persons at the Maguire Correctional Facility will once again have the opportunity to connect with their family and loved ones in person,” Binder said in a statement.
Visits must be scheduled in advance and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, authorities said. Scheduling opens at 6:30 a.m. the day before the intended visit. Visitors must call (650) 599-3000 to reserve a slot. Walk-in or in-person sign-ups are not allowed.
County officials said plans are underway to replace the entire elevator system at the facility, including the visitation elevator. That project is expected to last through 2026 and will require the visitation elevator to be taken out of service again at a date yet to be announced.
During future closures, incarcerated people can still connect with loved ones through video visits, electronic messaging and phone calls. Video visits are available through Smart Communications, with each incarcerated person receiving two free video visits per week using a tablet provided by the facility.