Iredell County Detention Center

The aging Iredell County Detention Center struggled with overcrowding, straining both staff and facilities. A detailed analysis of detention records and population trends pointed to an accelerating problem: without expansion, the facility would fall increasingly short of the county's needs. Moseley conducted a thorough needs assessment, examining booking patterns, inmate populations, and facility capacities to develop a data-driven expansion plan structured to accommodate growth through 2050.

Core Facilities Expansion

The detention center expansion adds 300 beds while incorporating infrastructure sized for 500 inmates. Within the urban site constraints, the project adds essential operations areas: intake processing, booking spaces, kitchen facilities, laundry operations, and property storage. The design converts the existing booking and intake area into a medical suite, maximizing use of available space.

Security Systems

A sophisticated security network operates from a central touchscreen interface. The system runs on a dedicated computer network, protected by an independent uninterruptible power supply—a critical backup that maintains security during power disruptions.

Programmable logic controllers manage the electronic systems: door locks respond to commands, intercoms enable communication between staff and inmates, and emergency call stations function in every cell. IP cameras monitor interior and exterior spaces, with feeds accessible from remote viewing stations. The sally port's overhead gates integrate with this command system for controlled vehicle access.

Intake and Processing

Detainees enter through a 1,500-square-foot enclosed vehicle sally port that accommodates buses and ambulances. The 9,000-square-foot intake area includes sobriety testing zones, ADA-compliant holding cells, and officer workstations that support efficient processing.

In the 5,100-square-foot booking area, an elevated desk gives officers clear views across the space. The holding cells serve different needs: some maintain negative pressure for health safety, while others fit various group sizes. A three-person shower and changing area connects to property storage with laundry equipment.

Medical Services

The renovated 2,400-square-foot medical suite occupies the former booking area. The original booking desk now serves as a nurse's station, while former holding cells function as medical observation rooms. The medical space includes three exam rooms, a pharmacy, and support areas that meet state compliance standards.

Support Programs

Each housing unit contains dedicated space for abuse counseling, religious services, and educational programs. Video visitation stations in dayrooms help inmates maintain family connections while simplifying facility operations.

Air Systems

The housing areas use specialized ventilation, with 100 percent outside air flowing through energy recovery devices before exiting the building. This approach maintains air quality while reducing energy consumption.

The expanded detention center reflects precise planning that addresses security requirements, health needs, and rehabilitation services. Each element of the design serves both immediate operational demands and long-term flexibility.