FELTON, Calif.—Santa Cruz County has launched a $23 million revamp of its juvenile hall in Felton, marking its largest upgrade in nearly six decades.
The Santa Cruz County Juvenile Hall renovation is being led by NELSON Worldwide, including providing architectural services for the project such as schematic design, design development and final construction documents.
Bogard Construction is handling construction management services for the renovation; the firm built the original facility and is now overseeing its upgrades and expansion.
The project reportedly includes a new 6,850-square-foot gymnasium; a greenhouse and farm-to-table garden to support a culinary classroom; and renovations throughout the building—including classrooms, air conditioning, restrooms, training rooms, storage, new cell doors, laundry, and day rooms; and a new central control space. Safety improvements are also being made, including making the facilities fully accessible.
The renovation is funded through Senate Bill 81 and has been in the works for years. The facility plans to remain operational throughout construction, and the project’s anticipated completion is late 2026. Officials have said that the upgraded space will promote healing, learning, growth, and wellness for the youth residing there.
Nelson had led the design of numerous significant justice projects in recent times, including the Menifee Justice Center in Riverside, Calif.; the Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Center, Fla.; The Stevens County Justice Center in Colville, Wa.; and the Nevada County Courthouse in Nevada City, Calif.
Bogard Construction, Inc. is a long-established general contractor and construction management firm based in Santa Cruz, Calif., specializing in a wide range of project types and delivery methods.
