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New owners of former youth development center have big plans for facility

The snow gives a peaceful feel to the former New Castle Youth Development Center, which has sat empty for five years.

Now, for the first time since it's closing, we're getting a clear look at the facility's future.

“We just saw unlimited potential. There are 13 buildings out there and each one could be used for completely different purposes,” said Tom Scott, CEO of the Lawrence County Community Action Partnership.

The LCCAP had the $2 million winning bid for the property.

Initially, the partnership wasn't interested, but that changed after the initial sale fell through.

“Because of that, it forced everybody in the community to take a second look and revisit. As a result, what we see is a gem,” said Scott.

The former juvenile detention center was initially sold to Hira, an Islamic education center based in New Jersey.

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But questions about the long-term plans and finances caused the deal to fall through.

The lawyer representing Hira told Channel 11 that all legal options are being evaluated.

Despite the controversy, Scott sees a bright future for the youth development center, including a transportation hub, a STEM education center for local high schools and a business incubator for entrepreneurs.

“Sometimes bad news and controversy creates opportunities. This example, in my opinion, became a great opportunity for Lawrence County,” said Scott.