Wayne County Health Department and Department of Social Services

As Wayne County's population grows, North Carolina's adoption of Medicaid expansion has increased demand for health and social services. County leaders consolidated their Health Department and Department of Social Services into a single location. This unification improves service delivery by connecting healthcare and social support systems in one building.

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Integrated Design for Service Delivery

The 80,000-square-foot facility features two wings that merge around shared central spaces. Combined interview rooms and meeting areas serve both departments efficiently. The main lobby leads to a central waiting area with specialized spaces branching off, allowing staff to guide visitors directly to needed services.

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Secure Operations and Staff Amenities

The building's layout enables employees to move through secure corridors while maintaining separation from public areas. Staff facilities include a fitness center, quiet rooms for breaks, and an outdoor patio offering natural light and space to recharge.

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Health Services

The Health Department wing combines essential medical services: a pharmacy operates alongside laboratory facilities, while dedicated spaces house health education programs, nutrition services, and patient accounting. Natural light fills clinical areas through large windows, and advanced air filtration systems maintain high air quality standards.

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Social Services

The Department of Social Services wing adapts to community needs through specialized program areas. A mock apartment supports adoption services training. The wing includes Child Protective Services, Family and Children Medicaid, and Adult Economic Services, creating connected support programs under one roof.

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Community Space

The main entrance connects to a multipurpose meeting room that serves dual purposes: during business hours, it hosts departmental programs, while after hours it becomes available to other county departments for community activities.

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Building Systems and Site Design

The facility integrates heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems to support daily operations. The site design preserves existing vegetation and incorporates a playground for families visiting the building.

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Visitor Experience

Design elements throughout the building create a welcoming atmosphere. Bright colors and clean finishes convey hope and support. A covered entry plaza leads visitors inside, where natural light illuminates clear pathways. Simple navigation reduces stress, while windows connect interior spaces to the outdoors, supporting physical and emotional comfort.