Santa Cruz County has officially broken ground on a $23 million renovation and improvement of the Juvenile Hall facility located at 3650 Graham Hill Road in Felton.
Funded primarily through state funding, it represents the most substantial improvement project in the building’s 57-year history. The renovation includes a new Multi-Use Recreation and Program Facility and renovation and upgrades throughout the building.
Funded through two rounds of Senate Bill 81 funding from the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC), this project includes a pre-engineered steel structure containing a full gymnasium, restrooms, training and program rooms, storage and equipment spaces. Other improvements include utility upgrades, grading and drainage improvements, fencing, walkways and other essential infrastructure.
“This critical project will modernize the facility, expand programming capacity, and align infrastructure with the County’s rehabilitative mission for justice-involved youth,” Probation Chief Fernando Giraldo said. “These improvements are long overdue and will ensure that our Juvenile Hall meets modern standards of safety, accessibility, and rehabilitation. This is a transformational investment in the future of our community and the young people we serve.”
Other improvements involve installation of a teaching garden and greenhouse, renovation of the kitchen, dining room, support spaces, laundry, updated day rooms and central control area, as well as barrier removal and access upgrades throughout the building and grounds, including accessible restrooms and drinking fountains.
The renovation supports the implementation of a new Seed-to-Table program aimed at providing hands-on vocational training in gardening and culinary arts, reinforcing the County’s rehabilitative focus and preparing youth for successful reintegration.
Construction is expected to be completed in late 2026. The facility will remain operational throughout the duration of the project.
