SHELBY, N.C. — Cleveland County is embarking on one of the most ambitious civic projects in its history: the construction of a new 343,000‑square‑foot Justice Center that will consolidate law enforcement, detention, judicial, and administrative services across an 8.3‑acre campus in uptown Shelby. Scheduled for completion in 2026, the facility promises to reshape how residents access essential public services while addressing long‑standing challenges with overcrowding and outdated infrastructure.
Campus Master Planning
The project emerged from years of planning to resolve the costly maintenance and inefficiencies of the county’s existing detention, court, and law enforcement facilities. After evaluating multiple options, officials settled on a centralized design that keeps judicial functions in uptown Shelby while achieving significant annual savings in maintenance and energy consumption. The master plan ensures continuity of services during construction, with the current courthouse remaining operational until the transition is complete.
Efficiency Through Integration
At the heart of the Justice Center is a 147,000‑square‑foot detention facility capable of housing 600 inmates. The jail will feature intake and booking areas, medical and magistrate’s offices, kitchen facilities, and administrative support spaces. Adjacent to it, a 46,000‑square‑foot law enforcement center will bring together the sheriff’s divisions, including patrol, narcotics, civil operations, and investigations.
The 151,000‑square‑foot courthouse will serve as the centerpiece of the campus, offering nine courtrooms, judicial offices, clerk of court facilities, district attorney and public defender offices, and a register of deeds office. By linking the detention center directly to the courthouse, the design eliminates the need for inmate transport across town, reducing both security risks and operational expenses.
Community‑Centered Design
The uptown location was chosen to provide convenient access for residents while reinforcing Shelby’s role as the county’s civic hub. Security and accessibility are central to the design, with a single public entrance for screening and advanced technology to support modern workplace requirements. The county also plans to reserve space for future facilities, ensuring the campus can expand alongside community growth.
Architectural Heritage
The new Justice Center pays homage to Shelby’s architectural legacy. The 1907 Historic Cleveland County Courthouse remains a beloved landmark, but its 1974 replacement lacked the commanding presence of the original. The new facility blends historical elements with contemporary judicial needs, creating a prominent addition to the uptown landscape. A welcoming public entry plaza will serve as a civic gathering space, reinforcing the courthouse’s role as a symbol of justice and community pride.
Collaborative Achievement
The project’s success reflects the collaboration of a wide range of stakeholders. Sheriff Alan Norman, County Manager David Cotton, Assistant County Manager Keri Melton, county commissioners, and judicial officials have all played critical roles in shaping the design. Judges, the clerk of court, the district attorney, the public defender, and the register of deeds contributed their expertise to ensure the facility meets the practical needs of the justice system.
On the professional side, Moseley is leading the design, with WithersRavenel providing engineering and site development. Construction management is being handled by Yates Construction in partnership with Metcon Buildings & Infrastructure, ensuring the project remains on schedule and within budget. Financing was secured through a direct loan with TD Bank, part of an $89 million package approved by county commissioners in 2025.
Future‑Ready Facilities
Beyond bricks and mortar, the Justice Center represents Cleveland County’s commitment to public safety, judicial integrity, and community service. Adaptable spaces anticipate future growth, while modern infrastructure ensures the facility will serve residents effectively for decades. By maintaining judicial functions in uptown Shelby, the county strengthens local development while enhancing efficiency and security across its justice system.
Photo Credit: Moseley
