In 2021, the Cheatham County Board of Commissioners selected MBI to lead pre-planning and master planning for the County’s criminal justice facilities in downtown Ashland City. The effort analyzed inmate populations and projected bed needs. It also assessed existing conditions at the jail, courthouse, and emergency operations center. This was to meet Tennessee Corrections Institute (TCI) standards and county requirements.

The study confirmed the need to expand and renovate the existing Justice Center. Planned improvements increase bed capacity and improve operational efficiency. They also provide required gender separation. The project upgrades inmate transport, court holding areas, and courtroom capacity. Additionally, it adds public parking and a new public jail entrance.

MBI provided full detention and courts design services for a 200-bed facility with expansion capacity for an additional 64 beds. The design includes jail administration, intake and release, food service, laundry, warehouse, inmate programs, and staff support spaces. All improvements are master planned for a 20-year growth horizon. They are also designed to complement the historic courthouse and surrounding downtown district.