FRANKLIN, Tenn.—Williamson County has marked a major milestone in its long‑term judicial campus expansion with the groundbreaking of a new 114,900‑square‑foot Juvenile Justice Center, a facility designed to modernize youth services and meet the needs of one of Tennessee’s fastest‑growing communities. The project is being delivered by Bell Construction with design leadership from Treanor’s Justice team, supported by Gresham Smith as a collaborating design partner. Representatives from all firms joined county officials and community partners to celebrate the start of construction.
The new center replaces an aging facility that county leaders have long described as undersized and outdated. In its place, the county is investing in a purpose‑built environment focused on rehabilitation, family engagement, and proactive intervention—an approach that reflects national best practices in juvenile justice.
At the heart of the design are 32 residential beds, four fully equipped courtrooms, and two additional shelled courtrooms to accommodate future growth. The building also includes a wide range of program and support spaces: dedicated education classrooms, therapy and counseling rooms, indoor and outdoor visitation areas, and a shared dining space intended to create a more normalized, community‑oriented daily routine for youth.
Recreation and wellness were also prioritized. Plans call for green space, an outdoor basketball court, secure recreation yards, and an indoor gymnasium, all intended to support physical activity and emotional well‑being.
Treanor’s Justice team emphasized that the project represents more than a replacement facility. “This center is designed to create opportunities for prevention, intervention, and positive outcomes,” the firm said in a statement celebrating the groundbreaking. “We’re proud to support a community‑centered model that helps shape a better path forward for youth and families.”
Gresham Smith, which has supported Williamson County through broader justice system planning efforts, noted that the new center reflects the county’s commitment to creating a modern, trauma‑informed environment for youth. The firm highlighted the project’s emphasis on healing, education, and family connection, underscoring its role in helping shape a facility that supports long‑term positive outcomes.
The Juvenile Justice Center is the first major structure in a multi‑phase redevelopment of the county’s judicial campus. Future phases are expected to include additional court and administrative buildings, expanding the county’s capacity to serve a rapidly growing population.
Bell Construction, which has delivered several high‑profile civic projects across Middle Tennessee, noted that the new center reflects Williamson County’s commitment to long‑term planning and community investment. “We’re proud to bring this facility to life and support a vision that prioritizes rehabilitation and family connection,” the company said.
Construction is now underway, with the county targeting completion in 2028. Once open, the center is expected to significantly expand service capacity while providing a modern, trauma‑informed environment for youth, families, and staff.
