Toledo, OH – Today the Board of Lucas County Commissioners voted unanimously to start contract negotiations with two area firms for architectural and construction services for a new Lucas County Corrections Center and Sheriff’s Office.

Lathrop/Ozanne of Maumee was selected to provide construction management services for the project and Poggemeyer Design Group of Bowling Green was selected to provide the prime architectural and engineering services related to a new Corrections Center.

The Board, in partnership with Lucas County Sheriff John Tharp, commissioned a five member independent community review team to evaluate qualifications submitted by engineering and construction firms from around the Midwest and provide recommendations. This action specifically authorizes the Lucas County Administrator to negotiate professional service contracts with both companies. After the contract negotiations are complete, the Board of Lucas County Commissioners will award contracts to the firms to commence the planning and design stages of the project.

"Today there will be a team in place to work with the community to rebuild a justice center based on criminal justice reform,” stated President Tina Skeldon Wozniak.

“This is the start of the project, the action stage begins now,” stated Commissioner Pete Gerken.

Commissioner Carol Contrada stated, "We are very pleased to launch the first phase of planning and designing the new Lucas County Corrections Center."