PROJECT PRIORITIES   Muskegon County developed a detention initiative to replace both their Adult and Juvenile Detention Centers. The existing 21-bed Juvenile Detention Center was obsolete and needed to be replaced with a larger, modern transition facility that incorporated new strategies for working with juveniles.

SOLUTION  The new 32-bed Juvenile Transition Center incorporates extensive program space within a secure residential environment. Each of the four 8-bed pods contain single and double occupancy bedrooms off a common living area. Every pod opens onto a multi-purpose common space for educational or recreational activities. The Transition Center is furnished with secure, college-style furniture to strengthen a residential image while creating a safe environment.

By oversizing the living units, under Michigan Juvenile Standards, Muskegon County can expand to 48-beds within the current footprint. The county can also add up to two additional housing pods to the central support facility.