Ocean County Leader

Construction is advancing on the new Ocean County Justice Complex Annex in Toms River, where work on concrete foundations, columns, and slabs is currently underway. The project was discussed during a preboard meeting of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners on March 26.

John P. Kelly, Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and liaison to the courts, elaborated on the need for the annex. "Ocean County has seen a need for quite a while now for security upgrades and operational efficiencies for the courts and related services," Kelly noted. This project follows previous renovations of the existing complex.

The annex, once completed, will feature a single secure entrance, separated circulation paths for different facility users, and will address ongoing issues related to movement within the building. "Our overall goal is to create a building that is functional, cost-effective, and right-sized," Kelly emphasized.

According to Matthew Mulkeen, Senior Associate for project architect Clarke Caton Hintz, efforts are ongoing and everything is set for increased activity onsite. One key milestone upcoming is the relocation of a primary feeder by Jersey Central Power & Light Company.

The four-story annex, with approximately 155,000 gross square feet, will connect with existing justice buildings, including the Ocean County Parking Garage and Jail. It will host new criminal courtrooms, jury assembly areas, and holding cells while streamlining operations to anticipate future requirements.

To further enhance security, the adjustment includes secure entry and circulation for Superior Court Judges. "This enhances security and safety for everyone using the facility," Kelly stated. Although courts function at the state level, the county is responsible for the facilities, a point Kelly reminded commissioners: "Ocean County takes care of Ocean County's needs."

Public access will be via an overhead walkway, which is also being renovated, linking the annex to the parking garage. "The new building also allows for consolidation of court facilities into fewer buildings ultimately providing a reduction in building leases," Kelly highlighted, mentioning that several courthouse-related services were previously scattered across separate buildings.

Mulkeen provided a timeline for the project; the building should be enclosed by January 2026 with further internal progress planned for the same year. Despite concerns from some commissioners regarding project completion dates, assurances were given about managing any delays.

"We will hold everyone accountable to make up any delays and have the work completed as anticipated," Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi affirmed.