The Davidson County Metro Criminal Justice Center offers a mission-driven approach to detention, diversion and treatment in downtown Nashville. The building houses Sheriff’s Office staff and up to 1,000 inmates.
HOK’s contemporary design blends the often-competing missions of security and treatment. The materiality and massing relate to the surrounding historic civic buildings and courthouse while creating a forward-thinking, modern environment.
An extended civic plaza and new public garden with trees and fountains connect the building to the courthouse and City Hall and act as a public gathering place. From the civic plaza, visitors enter the Center through a glass lobby that promotes the open relationship between the county government and community.
Sustainable design strategies include green roofs, photovoltaic systems and stormwater mitigation.
Locating a 64-bed unit for individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) near the jail’s booking area helps staff evaluate prisoners’ emotional and psychological needs at the early stages of processing. The mental health facility has medical and program spaces for therapy. It provides a pleasant environment for visits with family members and healthcare staff.
A state-of-the-art medical clinic includes exam, procedure, observation and negative-pressure isolation rooms, as well as a fully equipped dialysis center and a dental operatory.