Dayton, Ohio – Montgomery County officials gathered Thursday to celebrate the completion of a major renovation project at the Juvenile Justice Center, marking what leaders described as an important step toward improving services for young people and their families.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony officially introduced the newly renovated fourth floor of the Juvenile Justice Center at 380 W. Second St. in Dayton. County officials said the project represents both a significant financial investment and a long-term commitment to creating a better environment for youth involved in the juvenile justice system.
The renovation cost $8.6 million and focused on transforming existing space within the current building rather than maintaining separate or outdated facilities. Officials said this approach allowed the county to modernize operations while making responsible use of taxpayer resources.
New layout brings services together under one roof
One of the biggest changes made through the renovation is the relocation of probation staff and the downtown court into the same area. County leaders said bringing these services together will improve communication, coordination, and convenience for employees while making it easier for young people and their families to receive the support they need.
The redesigned floor now includes dedicated rooms for counseling sessions, tutoring programs, family meetings, and community discussions. By placing these services in one location, officials believe assistance can be delivered more quickly and consistently during important moments in a young person’s life.
Commission President Carolyn Rice said the project was created with the needs of young people in mind.
“This renovation reflects a commitment to putting young people first in how we design and deliver services,” said Commission President Carolyn Rice. “It creates an environment where they can get the support they need at critical moments, when stability and guidance can make a real difference. These spaces are built to help young people feel supported, build confidence and see a real path forward toward opportunity and success.”
In addition to improving how services are delivered, the project also includes several physical upgrades throughout the building.
Visitors will now enter a brighter and more welcoming reception area designed to make families feel more comfortable. The renovation also added a centrally located multipurpose room that can be used for staff training, educational activities, and community events. Expanded security screening has been installed, and increased natural light throughout the floor is intended to create a calmer and more inviting atmosphere.
Montgomery County Juvenile Court Judge Helen Wallace said bringing multiple teams together in one location will benefit both employees and the families they serve.
“We are very excited and grateful to now have court staff with probation and court-appointed special advocate teams under the same roof,” said Montgomery County Juvenile Court Judge Helen Wallace. “Being together will create efficiencies for staff and volunteers who regularly meet with youth and families and also need to be at court for hearings. We put a lot of care, thought and intention into creating a bright, soothing and state-of-the-art space and are thrilled to see our vision come to life.”
County officials said the renovation reflects a broader effort to rethink how juvenile justice services are provided. Rather than focusing only on court proceedings, the updated facility is intended to strengthen the Juvenile Court’s mission of helping young people overcome challenges through accountability, guidance, education, and access to supportive resources.
The project was completed through a partnership between the Montgomery County Facilities Management team and the Montgomery County Juvenile Court. Triton Services, Inc. served as the general contractor, while LWC Incorporated provided professional design services.
County leaders said the renovated space is expected to improve daily operations while creating an environment where young people and their families can receive the help they need in a modern, welcoming, and efficient setting.
