Rutherford County forensic center near completion; contingency and VE items detailed

The Rutherford County Property Management Committee received a detailed construction update on the Rutherford County Regional Forensic Center, with county and contractor representatives reporting steady progress and a remaining design/construction contingency.

Adam Dodd, director of facilities maintenance, told the committee that "the overall site work remains at approximately 80% complete," with stormwater and retention ponds at about 90%, exterior sheathing and the roof substantially finished, and interior mechanical, plumbing and electrical rough‑in roughly 75% complete. Dodd reported that inspections are up to date.

Contractor project manager Jonathan Martinez said the contract includes obligations to reach "substantial completion," which he described as the formal turnover of a fully operational facility. "That would be the equivalent to turning over the keys to the county," Martinez said, explaining that substantial completion means the county could operate the facility immediately upon turnover.

The team reported three value‑engineering (VE) items that were added back into the project at the last owner‑architect‑contractor meeting: high‑impact drywall in lab areas for $3,300; increasing lead lining in walls from 7 feet to 9 feet for $3,200 (to provide additional radiation protection); and 13 additional autopsy trays for $16,900. After those additions, the design and construction contingency balance stands at $457,000, according to the presentation.

Committee members pressed for timing and operating cost details. Martinez said the contract contemplates turnover at substantial completion and that equipment covered by the contractor’s scope will be provided as specified. He noted one high‑cost, optional item — a Lodox imaging unit — was not in the contractor’s scope and remains a "wish list" item; staff and consultants discussed seeking a donation or outside funding for that equipment. Members also flagged that personnel and regular operating costs (staffing, utilities) will be addressed separately through the county’s budget process.

The committee did not take any final votes on the forensic center at the meeting; staff said more budget and operational details will be developed and presented in coming months.