A new Justice Center is under construction in Shelby and is expected to be completed in early February. A levy in November 2010 was passed and generated the funds for the project. Local contractors contributed to the project.
The use of local contractors didn’t just contribute to the cost of the project. “It also helps the local economy, which is great for the community,” said Project Coordinator Joseph Gies.
The previous facility for the Shelby Police Department had to be demolished because of severe damage from the flood in 2007. The police are currently stationed in a warehouse located on Wareham Road since 2007, and that has been a challenge.
Gies stated, “It has not been easy for our police department because the courts are in another small building and the location of the jail is out of town because we currently do not have one here.”
Construction on the new facility began in November 2012 and it is expected to be finished by the end of February 2014. However, Gies said there is a possibility that it could be completed sooner. The roof is currently under construction and it is expected to be finished by August 2.
Gies said, “The process has been lengthy because it did take a while to find contractors and architects to work on the plans for the site but it is moving along.”
“To my knowledge, this is the first time we have ever had a building built specifically for the police department and the court,” said Gies. The Justice Center will encompass approximately 25,000 square feet and the jail will have to meet specifications.
Gies added, “The location of the Justice Center was desired to be centrally located downtown and out of the flood plain.” It will be located at the corner of Mack and Tucker Avenue, which is in the middle of town.
“There are a lot of great things happening in Shelby right now and we are all excited to get the Justice Center completed, he said.”
