GARFIELD HEIGHTS, Ohio—Cuyahoga County is moving forward with the process of building a state-of-the-art jail facility in Garfield Heights to replace the aging Corrections Center in downtown Cleveland. The new campus will offer an enhanced environment with upgraded amenities and expanded resources to support individuals in the County’s custody. Site preparation and demolition are scheduled to begin this fall, with full construction launching in spring 2026.
The Central Services Campus will feature enhanced substance abuse and mental health services, including a Behavioral Care Center and an on-site Reentry Resource Center to connect residents with housing, employment, and other supportive services. Each housing unit will include recreation areas that provide access to fresh air, natural light, and space for programming, in-person and video visitation, and group activities. A new Central Booking Unit will streamline intake, processing, and health assessments.
The 1,886-bed campus will include advanced, on-site medical amenities designed to reduce the need for off-site transport. Medical spaces will offer a normalized healthcare experience in a modern setting, including a 26-bed infirmary, exam rooms in each housing unit, an expanded dental clinic, on-site dialysis, laboratory testing and imaging, a larger pharmacy, physical therapy space, and telemedicine capabilities.
The design team includes nationally recognized firms such as HOK (criteria architect), K2M Design, Osborn Engineering, HDR, and Richard L. Bowen & Associates. Gilbane Building Company has reportedly been awarded a $33.4 million contract for early design and construction services, and will lead pre-construction planning and coordination.
The project team remains committed to delivering a premier facility while being responsible stewards of public funds. The current program budget stands at $890 million, funded through a 0.25% sales tax extension approved in 2023. Through careful planning, the team has worked to reduce costs and achieve savings without compromising the facility’s quality, environment, or essential programming. Next steps include finalizing designs and establishing a guaranteed maximum price, with full operations expected by mid-2029.
Photo Credit: K2M Design
