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At DCCM, our historic preservation team helps communities navigate that balance every day. From evaluating historic resources on federally funded projects to guiding local governments through surveys, documentation, and Section 106 compliance, our specialists ensure progress never comes at the cost of irreplaceable heritage. Using detailed research, GIS mapping, and nationally recognized preservation standards, our experts help revive historic structures, protect cultural landscapes, and keep the stories of towns and cities alive for generations…

Architecture Week is a chance to celebrate the creative and technical work that shapes the spaces where people live, work, and connect, always with purpose. Across DCCM, our architects are addressing everyday challenges through thoughtful design, collaboration, and a practical approach to problem-solving. This year, we’re honored to feature Michael Garringer, Alexis Rogge, Sanjay Patel, Heather Lezon, Tyler Huettig, and Zach Isaacs — six DCCM architects whose experience, perspective, and commitment to excellence reflect the strength of our team and the work we do across the country. Representing different stages of their careers, each brings a unique insight into the profession and the work that drives it forward. Their Q&As below offers a closer look at the people behind the project designs, insight to their experience, and the perspectives they bring to architecture every day. Job title and location: Michael: Director, Architecture – Fishers, Indiana Alexis: Architectural Graduate – Fishers, Indiana Sanjay: Senior Project Manager, Architecture – Fishers, Indiana Heather: Project Manager, Justice Studio – Fishers, Indiana Tyler: Project Manager, Multi-Family Studio – Fishers, Indiana Zach: Project Architect – Fishers, Indiana What does being an architect mean to you personally, and how has that meaning evolved throughout your career? Michael: Being an architect, to me, is a blend of creative expression, technical problem solving, and a responsibility to positively shape human experience. Over time, my perspective has evolved from the excitement of designing individual solutions to a deeper appreciation for the lasting impact architecture has on people, systems, and communities. Today, I see the role as one of stewardship—balancing innovation with sustainability and ensuring our designs deliver meaningful, long-term value. Alexis: Architecture is looking at the world with a different lens. A combination of art, math, and science coming together to shape how people experience space. My great-grandfather was an architect and I love that I get to follow in his footsteps. Sanjay: Design has the ability to profoundly touch people and impact lives in deeply personal ways. Over time, the methodology and tools may evolve, but the fundamental core values remain the same, rooted in creating spaces that serve people and support the way communities live and connect. Heather: When I started my career, I wanted to be an Architect to design super cool buildings that belonged in magazines. I wanted to reinvent the ideas behind modern architecture and bring back characteristics that made ancient Roman buildings so beautiful. Now, I’m thinking less about what I can design and more about how people are using the spaces we create. I have found, more and more, that great architects can design spaces that non-designers can still appreciate. Any building that the end user thinks its beautiful, functional, will last more than 15 years, and offers the opportunity for growth is a great building. Tyler: Being an architect means more than designing buildings. It is about shaping human experience. In the end, architecture isn’t just what people see, it’s what they remember. I have learned that experience can be created at any scale, from a modest 1,000-square-foot apartment unit or a 120,000-square-foot recreational facility. Zach: Being an architect to me is about providing the best service to our clients and the positively impacting the communities our designs are located. My passion for architecture has evolved throughout the years from a more technical, detail-oriented pursuit to a more holistic, project impact pursuit. As I’ve progressed in my career, it’s become more about others around me and not so much myself-about how I can help, lead and teach others. What inspires your creativity as an architect, and where do you find design inspiration today? Michael: Design is everywhere, take a moment to experience the environment around you: the way light filters through space, how materials age, and how people instinctively interact with their surroundings. I draw inspiration from observing these moments, where architecture subtly shapes experience without calling attention to itself. Today, creativity comes from listening to place, purpose, and performance, and finding harmony between function, innovation, and the human experience. Alexis: My creativity is rooted in sketching and painting, where ideas start organically and evolve through exploration, and I’m constantly inspired by travel and the chance to experience different cultures and architectural styles. I also draw inspiration from the everyday—observing the buildings around me and how people move through and interact with those spaces. At the heart of my design approach is a focus on the end user, always thinking about how thoughtful, intentional architecture can enhance experiences and make people’s lives better through the built environment. Sanjay: Look to nature, squint and take in a different perspective, inspiration is all around you. Heather: I love solving problems, so my creativity is not always at its best with a blank canvas. I enjoy hearing what the client wants to see, understanding what the contractor believes is feasible, and learning how the end user wants to interact with a space. Bringing those viewpoints together and creating something everyone can agree on is where the design process really comes to life for me. Tyler: Being around creative people and problem solvers is always inspiring, but I find my strongest design inspiration comes from the places and cities I visit. Experiencing different environments and how people interact with spaces firsthand helps shape my perspective and often sparks ideas that I can bring back into my own work. Zach: Design inspiration can come from anywhere at any time. I could see a unique form or pattern, or hear a unique phrase it may spark a bit of inspiration. I also enjoy viewing nature, cities, and structures from across the world for unique perspectives on how to design. Literature also impacts how I think and how I address architectural design and leadership.” What is your favorite project you’ve worked on, and why? Michael: One of my favorite projects was the Newfields (formerly IMA) Gallery Addition and Renovation. This project accelerated my growth early in my career by exposing me to complex design and constructability challenges. Notable

In recognition of World Landscape Architecture Month, DCCM is proud to spotlight the professionals whose work helps shape meaningful, lasting spaces in the communities we serve. Landscape architecture brings together creativity, functionality, and environmental awareness to enhance how people experience the built environment. In the following Q&A, Director, Landscape Architecture, Eric Lanehart, PLA, ISA, and Senior Landscape Architect, Richard Malone, PLA, share their perspectives on the profession, what inspires their work, and how thoughtful landscape architecture can make a lasting impact. Their insights help illustrate the depth of expertise behind the spaces and places our teams help create. What drew you to landscape architecture? Eric: This profession allowed me to combine my expertise in plant biology with my knowledge of engineering and art into a lifelong career. Richard: I’ve always had a strong connection to the outdoors and an appreciation for how spaces can shape people’s experiences. Landscape architecture stood out to me because it blends creativity with problem-solving—designing environments that are not only visually appealing but also functional, sustainable, and meaningful. It gave me a way to turn that passion into something tangible that improves how people interact with the world around them. How would you describe the role of a landscape architect to someone outside the industry? Eric: This is a profession that requires you to be a good steward of the land, wear multiple “hats”, and expect 10 years of experience before you are comfortable in the role.  Richard: A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces with purpose. That can range from parks and streetscapes to commercial developments and residential communities—including private backyards, pool designs, and outdoor living spaces like kitchens and patios. We balance aesthetics, environmental considerations, and regulatory requirements while coordinating with engineers, architects, and planners. In simple terms, we design everything from the building footprint outward—shaping spaces that are usable, safe, and enjoyable. What is something people often misunderstand about landscape architecture? Eric: Most folks here the professional and think we always work outside, but in reality, most landscape architects are stuck in the office.  Richard: A common misconception is that it’s just about picking plants or making things look nice. While planting design is important, the profession goes much deeper—grading, drainage, code compliance, accessibility, and long-term maintenance all play a major role. It’s a technical discipline that requires both design thinking and a strong understanding of how landscapes function over time. How does landscape architecture add value to a project beyond aesthetics? Eric: A simple example is that trees and shrubs provide shade for parking lots and help to slow down rain and reduce the speed of stormwater infiltration. Richard: Landscape architecture adds value by improving functionality, enhancing safety, and creating a sense of place. Thoughtful design can increase property value, support environmental sustainability, and improve user experience. It also helps projects meet local codes and regulations efficiently, which can save time and cost during development. What types of projects do you most enjoy working on, and why? Eric: I enjoy working on public recreational areas and seeing people enjoying the spaces many years after they’ve been built. Richard: I enjoy projects where there’s an opportunity to create a strong sense of place and solve real site challenges. Projects that involve integrating natural systems—like preserving existing trees or coordinating design intent with real-world constructability and installation—are especially rewarding. I also enjoy seeing projects through from concept to construction, where you can watch an idea become a space people actually use and enjoy. What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in landscape architecture? Eric: Intern at a plant nursery and a professional landscape architecture office when you are in school. Richard: Get as much exposure as you can early on—whether through internships, site visits, or hands-on experience. Spend as much time in the field as possible working with installation crews to gain a true understanding of the implications each line you draw has during construction. Learn both the creative and technical sides of the profession, including grading, construction detailing, and plant knowledge. Strong communication skills are also key, since collaboration is a big part of the job. Most importantly, stay curious about how spaces work and how people use them. What is one outdoor space, anywhere, that has inspired you? Eric: The Guana River State Park system in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Richard: One space that stands out to me is Central Park. It’s a great example of how thoughtful design can create a lasting impact—balancing naturalistic landscapes with structured elements while serving a wide range of users. It shows how landscape architecture can shape not just a site, but an entire city’s identity and daily life. Looking Ahead As we celebrate World Landscape Architecture Month, we’re proud to recognize the expertise and perspective Eric and Richard bring to the profession. Their reflections offer a meaningful look at the value landscape architecture brings to projects, people, and place. To learn more about DCCM’s services, markets, and the teams behind the work, explore our website. If you’re interested in building your career with us, visit our Careers page to view current opportunities and learn more about life at DCCM.

April 1st marked two milestones for Shine | DCCM: 70 years of shaping Texas’s landscape and the retirement of trailblazing leader Nedra Foster Townsend. Founded in 1956 by Darrell Shine, Shine | DCCM began as a small, passionate land surveying firm rooted in a love for the land and the outdoors. Over the decades, the company has grown into a leader in surveying water and land boundaries, completing hundreds of miles of gradient boundary surveys on Texas’s major rivers and streams and surveying nearly 2 million acres across more than 100 counties. Shine | DCCM is recognized for its expertise in resolving complex boundary issues and is often called upon by other surveyors and attorneys for its deep historical knowledge and technical precision. The firm’s commitment to quality and responsiveness has made it a trusted partner for municipalities, private clients, and state agencies alike. Nedra Foster Townsend’s story is woven into the very fabric of Shine | DCCM. Joining the company in 1981, Nedra became the first and only woman in Texas to earn the title of Licensed State Land Surveyor (LSLS). Rising to President in 2004, she has led the firm through decades of growth and innovation. Nedra’s expertise in water boundaries and her role as an expert witness in more than 20 boundary lawsuits have set new standards for the profession. Her leadership has inspired generations of surveyors, and her legacy includes not only technical achievements but also a commitment to mentorship and professional service. As Shine | DCCM looks back on 70 years of excellence and looks forward to a future built on integrity and expertise, the company honors Nedra’s extraordinary career and the indelible mark she has left on the industry. Here’s to the past, present, and future of Shine | DCCM, and to Nedra, whose vision and dedication have helped define them both. To learn more about Shine | DCCM’s history, expertise, and continued impact, visit www.shine.dccm.com

Surveyors Week is a chance to celebrate the work that keeps communities moving, always with purpose. Across DCCM, our surveyors are solving everyday challenges with technical expertise, collaboration, and steady problem-solving. This year, we’re honored to feature Aaron Fateley, PS, Steven Ochoa, Jona Odell, Tim Johnson, Luke Kohnen, and Sterling Higginbotham—six DCCM surveyors whose experience, perspective, and commitment to excellence reflect the strength of our team and the work we do across the country. Representing different stages of their careers, each brings a unique insight into the profession and the work that drives it forward. Their Q&As below offers a closer look at the people behind the projects, insight to their experience, and the perspectives they bring to surveying every day. Job title and location: Aaron: Director, Survey & Right-of-Way – Fishers, Indiana Steven: Survey Technician – Lakeland, Florida Jona: Survey Technician – Fishers, Indiana Tim: Director, Survey – Corpus Christi, Texas Luke: Survey Technician – Fishers, Indiana Sterling: Project Surveyor – Houston, Texas Jacob: Surveyor – Corpus Christi, Texas What type of survey do you enjoy most, and why? Aaron: I enjoy transportation and construction staking. There’s something incredibly rewarding about being out onsite, helping lay out the precise points that guide a project from plans to reality. When the construction is finished, there’s a real sense of pride in being able to look at the completed roadway or structure and know you played a direct role in bringing it to life. It’s one of those parts of surveying where you can truly see the impact of your work. Steven: Boundary, I enjoy following the footsteps of previous surveyors and getting to know the history of the land. Jona: ALTA Surveys – It is my favorite because it’s a mix of boundary surveying and title analysis. Tim: Topographic Surveys and ALTA Surveys. Luke: I have been mainly doing Right of Way Engineering so that would be my favorite. Typically, it’s a big puzzle of establishing property lines, easements, right of way taking etc. and it is very satisfying when everything comes together. Sterling: Boundary surveys, because they were typically out in the country away from people and traffic. Jacob: Either ALTA or Topographical survey. What is something unique about surveying in your region, and how has it shaped the way you work? Steven: Lakeland has a deep history of talented surveyors who performed a lot of the foundational work that encompasses the boundaries of the land here. It has spoiled me in a sense, knowing that I have reliable work and experience at my beck and call. Jona: One aspect of surveying in Indiana that is unique to me is learning about land records in our state as it corresponds to history. Tim: I like the fact that we are surveying at sea level on the Gulf side of Texas. Luke: Indiana has established its own Public Land Survey System, its own state coordinate system, and maintains original monumentation. Jacob: One thing that we deal with as surveyors in our region that others may not is how low we are to sea level. Other places are not surrounded by the ocean so that’s one thing we deal with that others may not. What is the most unexpected thing you have seen or encountered on a job site? Aaron: There was a car in the creek on the project site where the bridge had been removed the week before our field work. Steven: The most unexpected thing that I have seen on a job site has been some the strange things I find on a person’s property. Tim: Wildlife, snakes, bob cats, and bees. Sterling: While we were working in Baton Rouge on the Mississippi River, a runaway barge broke loose and ran aground right where our project location was. Jacob: The wildlife we come across. Venomous snakes as well as deer, hogs, and other wildlife animals. Which project are you most proud of, and why? Aaron: The suspension bridge on SR 46 going into Columbus, Indiana. It was the first project that I did as a Crew Chief. Steven: Polk Regional Water Cooperative (PRWC), getting to work on a part of survey history that will last the test of time is always my favorite part of the career. Jona: Working on the 70 Connect 3 (Lauth) modern industrial warehouse in Greenfield, Indiana offered the opportunity to ensure the project was based on accurate data and planning for long-term success. Tim: Subdivision development. It’s cool to see the project from start to finish. Luke: I spent some time working on the I69 project from Martinsville to Indianapolis, which is the largest project I’ve been involved in so far. It gave me exposure to a wide range of surveying challenges and complexities, and it was exciting to contribute to something with such a significant impact on the region. Sterling: I have no favorite; my main focus is to take pride in any project and deliver a quality product. That’s what makes me proud. Jacob: The job we did for the port of Corpus Christi a couple years back. Reason being was how big the area was and how much walking and effort went into completing this job. It was a team effort. What is always in your truck bag that has nothing to do with surveying, but saves the day? Aaron: A pocketknife and a spoon. Steven: I usually carry a mini DIY survival kit inside of an old altoids can. It carries a little bit of anything, helps out a bunch! Tim: Hydration and snacks. Sterling: Snacks and bug spray. It’s not surveying gear but can save the day on certain sites. Jacob: We do have some wasp and bee spray (raid) which has nothing to do with surveying but does come in handy when we come across them in the field. What is something you have learned in surveying that you wish more people understood or appreciated? Aaron: Understanding how demanding and difficult the field work truly is. It

Engineers Week is a chance to celebrate the work that keeps communities moving—often behind the scenes, always with purpose. Across DCCM, our engineers are solving everyday challenges with technical expertise, collaboration, and steady problem-solving. This year, we’re honored to feature Mariah Rodriguez, EI, Andrew Sawyer, Stephanie Williams, PE, Tom Bartlett, PE, and George Hicks, PE—five DCCM engineers whose experience, perspective, and commitment to excellence reflect the strength of our team and the work we do across the country. Representing different stages of their careers, each brings a unique insight into the profession and the work that drives it forward. Their Q&As below offer a closer look at the people behind the projects, the lessons that have shaped their paths, and the perspectives they bring to engineering every day. Job title and location: George: Supervising Civil Engineer – Fairfield, California Stephanie: Senior Engineer – Atlanta, Georgia Andrew: Engineer – Lakeland, Florida Mariah: Staff Engineer –  Fishers, Indiana Tom: Project Manager – St. Augustine, Florida How has your role evolved since you started? Stephanie: I started with DCCM in July 2025 as the first-person doing Land Development out of our Atlanta/Sandy Springs office. We have recently hired another engineer to expand this team. I’m currently mentoring him to grow this division. Andrew: My understanding of project timelines, as well as interactions with parties involved in projects, has significantly progressed. To this extent, I now do more client interface interactions such as RPR work, emailing utility companies, preparing permits, and coordinating technical work. Mariah: Since starting at DCCM 3 years ago, I’ve gained more technical responsibilities and leadership roles within my department! I’ve gone from being a mere novice drafter to designing different project elements, completing design calculations, writing technical reports, and leading the utility coordination for a variety of projects. What part of your work has the biggest impact on communities? George: Being able to draw from and apply my 30 years experience serving as a City Engineer/Director of Public Works to help clients navigate successfully though those complicated and unusual situations they sometimes encounter. Andrew: To me it is constantly being there for our clients, which for the most part are public. Cities like Bartow, Auburndale, Wauchula [Florida], and more are always a pleasure to serve. Mariah: The part of my job that impacts our local communities the most would be during the design and planning portion of a project. This phase of a project is when we’ll decide what improvements are needed, what pedestrian facilities should be included, and what safety features to add. Well-designed roadway corridors increase driver and pedestrian safety, promote economic growth, and optimize travel! Tom: Water resources & stormwater management impact the health and growth of the community Who helped shape your engineering career, and how? George: I was fortunate early in my career to have a seasoned City Engineer that believed in me and spent the time to teach me not only “what” we do in our profession, but more importantly “why” we do things and many practical stories and applications for each lesson. This training helped me to develop a series of values that allowed me to make sound decisions when there wasn’t necessarily a clear “right” answer. Stephanie: Good managers. Over the years I’ve had several managers who have been phenomenal to work with and for. Loving who you work with is just as important as loving what you do. Andrew: I think Andre Rives and Austin Hungate have really shaped my engineering career. Andre’s diligent work ethic, always putting his head down and grinding, sets a lingering example of how I should also be doing my work. Austin’s presence and how he holds himself to professional standards in the workplace is truly role-model like and is something I hope people see in me one day. Mariah: My supervisors, peers, and involvement with professional organizations, like WTS, have all helped to shape my engineering career in some way. My supervisors have consistently provided thorough guidance on new tasks I undertake and ensure that I’m exposed to new topics within our field. My peers have helped to develop my professional identity and have molded how I interact with others in our field, how I attack new tasks or situations, and have each contributed to how I’ve developed my different workflows. My involvement in WTS has also exposed me to unique perspectives in our field and shown me what strong, capable women engineering leaders can look like. Tom: Bill Murchie PE – Helped me in my former position with designing an industrial seawater system used for marine research in the Florida Keys. What part of engineering excites you most right now? Andrew: Always problem solving. I love the work and being challenged. When I get water/wastewater engineering tasks, I love to work them out as quickly as I can to approach the next tasks swiftly and efficiently. Mariah: The part of engineering that excites me the most right now is developing solutions to ensure our infrastructure grows with our communities and best serves their individual needs. I am very intrigued by diverse roadway corridors that effectively implement public transit, accessible pedestrian facilities, greenspace, and vehicular travel lanes all in one! Tom: Water resources and wastewater treatment – Where the water goes and how we deal with waste is the most exciting to me currently What drew you to engineering in the first place? Stephanie: My grandfather, dad, and brother were all civil engineers. I remember visiting job sites with my dad as a child on Saturday morning. As a high schooler, I excelled at math and scienced and decided to continue that passion in college. Andrew: My skills in math and computers. I think I never went the more computer-like path in school because I enjoyed interacting with people too. I love making allies, and establishing relationships, before helping to solve their problems. Mariah: Growing up, my dad worked as an architect and would often take me with him to city hall, client meetings,

World Wetlands Day is observed each year on February 2nd to mark the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands. This year’s theme, “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage,” is a timely reminder that wetlands are not only ecological assets. They are landscapes that live, shaped by generations of observation, stewardship, and place-based practices. That framing matters for those of us who plan, design, permit, and build infrastructure. Wetlands sit at the intersection of water, land, and community. When we treat them as constraints to “get around,” projects can become harder to permit, more expensive to build, and less resilient over time. Wetlands become part of the solution when we treat them as systems to understand and partner with. Why wetlands matter to every community Wetlands reduce runoff from development and store floodwater, lessening downstream impacts. They improve water quality by treating pollutants and nutrients, support fisheries and wildlife, and store carbon. Losing wetlands carries tangible costs. Global assessments warn that wetland decline could drive massive economic losses in flood protection, water supply, food systems, and more, underscoring that wetlands serve as vital infrastructure, like concrete structures. The “traditional knowledge” connection is practical, not poetic Building on the importance of wetlands, we find that traditional and local knowledge is often described in cultural terms, but is also technically grounded. It reflects patterns observed over decades: for example, where water collects first, how tides behave in a storm, which vegetation indicates persistent saturation, which channels migrate, and which areas rebound naturally after disturbance. When project teams listen early, that insight can improve decisions that engineering models alone may not fully capture, including: How a site functions during extreme events (not only the design storm) Where seasonal saturation affects constructability and maintenance How to shape design choices for public access, working waterfronts, or heritage landscapes This is especially relevant in 2026 as communities are balancing growth with water constraints, risk of flooding, and coastal change. A shifting regulatory landscape raises the stakes for getting wetlands right Wetland and stream jurisdiction, permitting paths, and documentation expectations continue to evolve. In the U.S., the definition of “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) has been revised and implemented differently across states through litigation and rulemaking. The most important takeaway for project owners is clear: uncertainty is not a reason to delay formulating a wetland strategy; it shows the need to start earlier. Projects that move smoothly through permitting typically share three traits: Early field verification and clear documentation of aquatic resources A design approach that avoids and minimizes impacts instead of “mitigating” them A realistic plan for compensatory mitigation and monitoring when required When wetlands are integrated into the design from the start Effective projects do not bolt on wetlands after other design decisions have been made. Instead, they are planned alongside them. Examples include: Site and grading design conforming to natural drainage patterns Stormwater strategies mimicking natural storage and delayed release Design of landscape and public realms to protect wetland buffers while creating valued community spaces Phasing plans that reduce disturbance, protect soils, and effectively control erosion and sediment transport This is where gray and green solutions converge to create resilient infrastructure that relies on wetland functions, regardless of project labeling. Protecting wetlands with purpose: DCCM’s science-driven, delivery-focused approach DCCM supports clients nationwide across diverse infrastructure markets, providing design, consulting, and program and construction management services. We leverage our water resources capabilities, including hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, watershed management, and conservation planning, to deliver resilient, sustainable outcomes. Wetland management is routinely included in the planning and design decisions made for our clients, including: Managing flood risk to avoid over-building or over-permitting Aligning stormwater systems with natural hydrology and long-term maintenance Reducing permit risk by designing for avoidance and minimization, and developing workable mitigation strategies Coordinating disciplines to ensure environmental constraints are considered in geometry, utilities, and construction staging from the start. Across DCCM’s nationwide offices, environmental services supporting wetlands include regulatory permitting, wetland determination and delineation, and environmental mitigation and restoration. What project owners can do this year If wetlands are within or near your project boundary, consider these three moves before design is difficult to change: Consider wetland issues as a primary driver of the project.Budget time for field review, stakeholder input, and alternatives to reduce impacts. Use both model results and field realities.Pair hydrologic and hydraulic analysis with knowledge from local operators, residents, and long-time land stewards to learn how the site behaves. Combine permitting and constructability in the same conversation.Permits, erosion control, sequencing, and long-term performance are linked. Align them early to reduce future surprises. A closing thought for World Wetlands Day Wetlands connect the past with the future. They hold water, store carbon, sustain habitat, protect shorelines, and reflect cultural relationships at every location. World Wetlands Day reminds us to see wetlands as both vital ecosystems and valued community assets. By understanding and integrating wetlands, we build resilient, permittable infrastructure that respects landscapes and people. If you’re planning a project where flooding, drainage, coastal processes, or wetland resources may shape design or permitting, DCCM’s hydrology and water resources teams can help you evaluate options early and move forward with clarity. Explore our capabilities and connect with our team to start the conversation.

Revitalizing the SR 103 over I-70 Bridge through cost-savings and forward-thinking rehabilitation techniques. DCCM upgraded the safety and accelerated project completion for this critical bridge to minimize community disruption and support long-term connectivity…

With over 30 years of extensive involvement in all aspects of jail design, DCCM has observed a remarkable evolution of county jails, from basic incarceration facilities to ones that offer a more comprehensive approach to rehabilitation and reduction in recidivism. Utilization of advanced construction systems, modularization, and technology has expanded the capabilities of jails, beyond what was possible a few decades ago. However, the continuously changing correctional design environment, due to alterations in legislation, inmate populations, budgets, and resources, has necessitated constant adaptation. Looking ahead, DCCM believes the “jail of tomorrow” must focus more attention on restoring the human spirit for those incarcerated. While there have been ongoing discussions around deinstitutionalization, designers must find ways to contribute to it through innovative, adaptable facility layouts that give counties the flexibility to evolve their onboarding and offboarding approaches in the future. The facilities of the future must allow for a multi-faceted approach to addressing the underlying problems causing such a large increase in incarcerated population, placing greater emphasis on creating Intervention Centers where trained professionals can fully understand the scope and cause of the problem. This approach allows for early classification and implementation of a targeted-care perspective. It is vital that our jail designs shift toward smaller, more specialized facilities in a campus-like environment that provide trauma informed design for inmates with specific needs, such as mental health or substance abuse issues, while maintaining separate areas of full security for other classifications. (See Figure 1) Delaware County Justice & Rehabilitation Center Delaware County Mental Health Facility Figure 1 In our enhanced Pod design that we have developed and refined over the last ten years, DCCM has taken proactive steps toward developing a fully customizable design that reacts to early classification, offering sheriffs the opportunity for multiple levels of security for upwards of 350 inmates within one visual control point. This design not only provides our clients with a tailored, cost-effective solution but also addresses programmatic and staff efficiency needs during a time of reduced workforces and heightened awareness of wellness and well-being. (See Figure 2) Figure 2 With a more diverse population, the need for smaller treatment units has been greater than ever. Our designs provide a more normative environment, with all the required support and treatment spaces within the housing unit including classrooms, video arraignment, interview rooms, isolation/padded cells, and medical spaces. Controlled access allows for self-directed movement of inmates, leading to fewer opportunities for conflict and better utilization of staff. A mix of two-person and four-person cells, along with dormitories, provides incentivized options for inmates as they move through the system toward becoming productive and responsible members of society. (See Figure 3) Jail Pod With Visual Control Point Video Control Room Classroom Medical Space Figure 3 As an example, the DCCM Justice Studio designed the new Hancock County Jail, constructed in 2021. This modern facility was developed with a strong focus on mental health, rehabilitation, and reducing recidivism. The design incorporates dedicated programmatic pods and classroom spaces where inmates can participate in educational training, such as earning their GEDs. These specialized areas also support counseling and addiction recovery programs, providing opportunities for personal growth and preparation for reentry into society. By integrating these restorative and educational components directly into the housing unit, the Hancock County Jail reflects a shift toward a more holistic, treatment-oriented correctional model that prioritizes healing and transformation alongside safety and security. “The Hancock County Jail represents more than a place of confinement; it embodies a commitment to change. We are planting seeds of hope and opportunities into the very foundation of this facility. By integrating education, treatment, and recovery programs, we are providing individuals with the resources needed to rebuild their lives and successfully reenter our community. This modern design reflects our belief that true public safety is achieved through transformation, rehabilitation, and renewed purpose — not incarceration alone. The investment in this facility is an investment in people, in progress, and in the belief that change is always possible.” – Sheriff Brad Burkhart Mental health facilities are changing how county jails function by providing specialized care for inmates with mental health issues, but they will have to be more involved at the county jail level. This could involve offering counseling services, medication management, and other forms of treatment to help address their mental health needs. Mental health facilities are also changing how county jails approach discipline and punishment. Instead of relying solely on punitive measures such as solitary confinement, jails are increasingly using therapeutic approaches to address behavioral issues. Moreover, there must be an increased focus on restorative justice, which aims to repair harm caused by criminal behavior through a collaborative process involving the victim, the offender, and the community. This process would involve more restorative justice programs being offered within county jails as well as a greater emphasis on community-based alternatives to incarceration. (See Figure 4) Delaware County Mental Heath Waiting Room Delaware County Mental Health Classroom Delaware County Mental Health Living Quarters Delaware County Mental Health Bedroom Delaware County Mental Health Facility DCCM is committed to being the leader in providing viable, innovative solutions to address the evolving future of jails, as we grapple with changing laws and ideologies. We believe that our design expertise in the “jail of tomorrow” will bring positive impacts to the lives of inmates, the staff, and the community at large. Sanjay Patel, AAIA, LEED AP, CPTED Senior Project Manager – Justice Studio Lead, Indiana Sanjay leads the DCCM’s Justice Studio and has played an integral role in every detention project for the last 35 years. His leadership and expertise have led to DCCM jail design innovations, including direct contact ports in central control and self-contained housing pods with all support components. Additionally, Sanjay has developed a flexible systematic approach to control bed counts and costs. This has been instrumental in DCCM’s success in hitting early established construction budgets. His excellent communication and collaborative approach results in solutions that are tailored to a client’s specific needs and