Neumann Monson Architects has been hired to design the new Justice Center going up near the Johnson County Courthouse.

The firm is doing a pre-schematic design for the new center for a flat rate of $98,000. The entire plan is projected to cost the city approximately $39 million, and a vote for the bond will take place in November 2012.

Individuals are also being interview in regards to how much space they need, said Johnson County Board of Supervisor Chairman Pat Harney.

At Wednesday’s joint council meeting, Johnson County Board of Supervisor Terrence Neuzil said following the pre-schematic design, the projected $39 million may not be enough to cover the project.

The full design will not be done until the bond passes, Harney said.

The Justice Center will be opened in order to solve the overcrowding in the current jail, which has been a problem for several years.

— by Asmaa Elkeurti