Charles County Detention Center

SITUATION

• Charles County, Maryland, faced failing roof systems at its detention center and annex in La Plata. Budget constraints and delays associated with traditional design-bid-build procurement limited the county’s ability to address the roofing needs in a timely manner.
• The county needed a partner capable of providing technical solutions and alternative procurement options. PAX Services Group worked with the county to advance the roofing project while accommodating the facility’s operational requirements.

CHALLENGES

• Charles County’s needs included roof replacement, maintenance, and an addition to its facilities. Coordinating work at an occupied, high-security detention center required careful planning around 24/7 operations and significant access restrictions.
• Interior access was restricted, requiring manpower, materials, and equipment to be coordinated from the roof. Strict security protocols also required searches of all materials and team members upon entry and exit, reducing the time available for daily construction activities.
• PAX maintained close communication with facility personnel to coordinate schedules and work areas. This collaboration was essential to manage potential leak risks, support safe work practices, and maintain security throughout construction.

SOLUTIONS & RESULTS

• PAX partners with state and local government agencies to protect public buildings, support essential services, and plan for long-term capital needs.
• Through cooperative purchasing contracts, PAX Services Group streamlined procurement and coordinated design and construction services for roof replacement at both facilities. This approach allowed the county to move forward within budget and on a shorter timeline than traditional procurement methods.
• The team coordinated manpower, materials, and equipment from the roof, adapting daily activities to exterior-only access and security screening requirements. Clear communication with facility personnel helped maintain progress while accommodating detention center operations.
• PAX completed the roof replacement ahead of schedule and within budget. The project provided new roofing systems for the detention center and annex through a coordinated approach that addressed procurement constraints, restricted access, and the demands of an occupied, high-security facility.