By Emily Anderson, Finance and Operations Deputy Executive Director —
Momentum continues to build around the construction of our new state-of-the-art facilities in Ellis and Brazoria Counties, with $104 million in supplemental funding recently approved, bringing total project funding to $304 million. Both 104-bed facilities have received key legislative approvals, and design efforts are now underway. The design phase runs through July 2026, with construction set to begin in April 2026 and completion targeted for October 2028. The Ellis facility will serve youth with the highest-level mental health needs, while the Brazoria facility will focus on youth with the highest levels of violent behavior. These targeted service models reflect our commitment to building safer communities and transforming young lives.
Key Milestones Achieved
- Funding Secured: Supplemental funding of $104 million approved, bringing total project funding to $304 million.
- Project Approvals: LBB approvals received for Ellis County (104 beds) and Brazoria County (104 beds).
- Design Team Engaged: Architect/Engineer contract awarded June 18, 2025, with design services beginning July 2.
- Construction Manager at Risk (CMR): Interviews completed June 5; final selection anticipated at the August 21 TFC Commission meeting, which serves as the governing body for the selection.
- Commissioning Agent: RFQ released June 2, 2025.
- Site Control Secured: Ellis County lease closing completed in July 2025, ensuring long-term stability with a 50-year term and two 25-year extensions.
What’s Next
- Design Workshops: A series of six design workshops with TJJD leadership launched August 6 and will conclude November 5, shaping the vision for both facilities.
- Brazoria County MOU: Scheduled for execution in September 2025.
- Offsite Utilities: Coordination activities underway to support timely project delivery.
Project Timeline
- Design Phase: July 2025 – July 2026
- Construction Phase: April 2026 – April 2028
- Owner Occupancy: August – October 2028
For any questions about the status of TJJD’s new builds, please contact Emily Anderson at emily.anderson@tjjd.texas.gov.