Replacing an Aging Detention Facility
The new Jackson County Detention Center in Kansas City, Missouri, represents a major investment in the county’s justice infrastructure.
Opened in March 2026, the approximately $317 million, 470,000-square-foot facility replaces an aging and overcrowded jail that had served the county for more than six decades. The new detention center provides capacity for 1,000 individuals while bringing housing, medical care, behavioral health services, educational programming, recreation, and courtroom functions together on one modern campus.
The project was completed slightly ahead of schedule and under budget through close coordination among Jackson County, JCDC Partners, DLR Group, Wellner Architects, JE Dunn Construction, Axiom Construction, and other project partners.
Designed Around Justice with Dignity
“Justice with Dignity” served as a guiding principle throughout the project. The goal was to create a facility that supports safety and operational efficiency while recognizing the needs of detained individuals, staff members, visitors, and the wider community.
Direct-supervision housing units improve visibility and communication between staff and individuals in custody. Abundant natural light, access to outdoor areas, views of nature, improved acoustics, and more normalized interior finishes also help create an environment focused on treatment, care, and rehabilitation.
Medical and behavioral health areas are positioned near housing units, along with educational and treatment spaces. Two on-site courtrooms further improve efficiency by reducing the need to transport individuals between separate facilities.
Built for Flexibility and Long-Term Service
The detention center was planned to support Jackson County’s current needs while remaining adaptable as correctional practices and population demands change.
Its modular design allows future housing expansion without requiring major changes to central services such as the kitchen and laundry. Centralized control systems, integrated security technology, and carefully planned circulation routes support efficient daily operations throughout the facility.
The project team also addressed complex site conditions, labor constraints, and extensive electrical and low-voltage requirements while maintaining the project schedule and protecting its long-term operational goals.
Reliable Plumbing Fixtures for a Modern Detention Center
Jackson County selected Willoughby Industries to provide security plumbing fixtures for the new detention center.
Correctional plumbing fixtures must perform reliably under continuous use while resisting tampering, intentional abuse, and premature wear. Willoughby’s stainless steel fixtures are engineered for these demanding environments, helping facilities support security, sanitation, maintenance access, and long-term performance.
By combining modern detention planning with durable building systems, the Jackson County Detention Center provides a safer and more adaptable environment designed to serve the county well into the future.
For more information, read the July edition of Correctional News.