The San Juan Juvenile Services Center was a two-phase design project: the first phase included the development of a needs assessment and preliminary program to determine the feasibility of constructing a center to be the focal point for the delivery of juvenile services in the county. The Center includes the juvenile court system, an assessment center, a detention facility, shelter care, a substance abuse facility, and juvenile sanctioning components within one complex.
During the second design phase, San Juan County requested the development of a full operational and architectural program and design services. The project team coordinated the varying and sometimes conflicting needs and missions of various agencies to reach the goal of providing comprehensive services to the juvenile population in San Juan County.
The participating agencies included the courts, probation and parole, substance abuse services, mental health services, public health, and detention. This 93,000 s.f. project represents the state’s first comprehensive diagnostic and treatment center for juveniles that encompasses a continuity of care environment for juveniles in need.
The building is designed around a large central lobby with two reception desks and a waiting area. Court, Probation and Administration spaces flank the lobby on two sides. Visitation encloses the third side. Beyond Visitation are secure detention and treatment spaces that are accessed by a circulation spine. The circulation spine connects four detention pods, classrooms, a library, kitchen and dining spaces. The spine is designed for future expansion to the west.
Construction cost was approximately $10,000,000 with completion in 2004.