Justice Center Facility Condition Assessment and Master Plan

Cuyahoga County | Cleveland , Ohio

Osborn Engineering completed an extensive facility condition assessment and master plan for the entire 2,300,000 SF Justice Center Complex to set a course of viability for the next 30 years. The facility was constructed in 1976, and the entire campus encompasses approximately 2,300,000 square feet. The Justice Center Complex is comprised of a 25-story Court Tower, a 10-story Corrections Center (Jail I), an 11-story Correction Center Addition (Jail II), a 4-story Atrium (Galleria), 9-story Headquarters for the Cleveland Police and 432,500 SF of underground parking.

The Osborn team provided innovative programming solutions and a comprehensive capital plan for the County and Justice Center complex that spans a 20-30 year period of time. A comprehensive facility condition assessment and capital plan was created for the envisioned future. The analysis developed a strategic plan that addressed current building conditions, deficiencies, operations, technology, organizational structure between County and City, safety, and security and strived to enhance the Justice Center’s functional and physical performance for decades to come. Mechanical analysis included HVAC load calculations, energy model and life cycle cost analysis along with a detailed inventory and assessment of existing mechanical and plumbing systems.

Following completion of the facility condition assessment, Cuyahoga County requested that Osborn begin renovations addressing a prioritized list of critical life safety improvements identified in the study. These upgrades were required to keep the facility operational and included:

  • Egress stair enhancements
  • HVAC and electrical improvements
  • New key management system
  • Wall panel sealer
  • ADA parking
  • Perimeter security

The assessment also confirmed that, while targeted renovations were necessary in the near term, the long-term needs of the complex would ultimately require development of a new jail facility. Osborn is currently serving as Engineer of Record for that new facility, helping advance a solution that responds to the County’s operational, safety, and infrastructure goals. Discussions regarding future upgrades to the Court Tower also remain ongoing as part of the broader long-range planning effort for the Justice Center Complex.