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Townsend Law has issued an update on conditions of the Dallas County Jail, damaged by the January 12 tornado.

Attorney Neal Townsend spoke Monday at the Dallas County Commission (DCC) meeting.  Andrew York and Tommy Jones were also present.

As of Tuesday, the DCC successfully completed temporary emergency mitigation efforts within the Jail. The damage included significant impacts to the building envelope, roofing system, interior finishes, and a substantial portion of the electrical systems and components.

Over the past several months, Townsend said that the DCC cooperated closely with the insurance company’s investigation into the extent of the damages. This approach has been instrumental in determining the full scope and magnitude of the destruction caused by the tornado. Throughout this period, the DCC has reached significant milestones in its construction efforts.

Townsend also addressed the Juvenile Detention Center. He said progress has been made on multiple fronts. Roof work has commenced, and the interior has been painted and coated, enhancing the overall aesthetics and functionality of the facility.

The DCC aims to reopen and resume operations at the Juvenile Detention Center by the end of September. The commissioners and the contractor of record are optimistic about reaching the goal.

As the insurance claim and construction efforts continue, the DCC is committed to keeping the citizens of Dallas County informed of its status.

In other Commission news:

The County Commission announced that the Dallas County tax assessor and tax collector offices will be closed on Thursday because the staff moves into its new offices at the administration building. The officers will be open on Friday.