Warren County Justice Center

The 84,000 square-foot Warren County Justice Center, located on the City Square in Indianola, involved the complete demolition of the former courthouse and its grounds. Stormwater infrastructure previously running through the City Square was rerouted in preparation for the new Justice Center.

The Justice Center provides services for the County Attorney, County Sheriff, County Emergency Management, County Jail, and District Court 5 of Iowa’s Judicial Branch. It features office spaces, four courtrooms, a commercial kitchen, housing for at least 80 inmates, and several shell spaces for future expansion. The 84,000-square-foot building includes a full basement and two additional floors. Construction materials comprise concrete, structural steel, masonry, metal studs, drywall, full fire protection, prefabricated steel detention cell modules, aluminum framing and glazing, as well as mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems.

Given the larger footprint of the new construction compared to the former facility, meticulous site logistics planning was essential to adhere to the project schedule and coordinate with adjacent city businesses and events on the Square. Notably, the building’s foundation is supported by aggregate piers to address poor soil conditions, and an underground vehicular sally port provides a secure environment for deputies and those in custody. DCI Group also assisted through the pre-bond and referendum process, providing cost estimating, value engineering, and constructability review services.