In June 1963, Mr. David F. Herbert, Assistant Chief of the Bureau of Juvenile Probation and Detention, wrote to Mr. E.L. Quisenberry, City Manager of Bristol, Virginia, discussing the potential expansion of the city's detention program. The letter outlined procedures outlined in §16.1-201 of the Code of Virginia regarding state reimbursement for constructing and operating juvenile detention facilities.

An August 1963 Routine Inspection Report by Mr. Herbert expressed concern that an increase in bed space to 12 might overcrowd the facility. However, it noted Bristol's detention center was operating effectively, indicating a need for expansion.

Subsequent correspondence, including letters from Mr. William E. Weddington, Chief of the Bureau of Juvenile Probation and Detention, outlined steps for determining the need for a regional detention facility and urged Bristol to make decisions regarding its detention facilities.

In March 1967, the Board of the Department of Welfare and Institutions approved the development of a regional juvenile detention home for the Bristol area. Plans progressed over the years, with contracts and proposals for construction funding. By 1974, the Highlands Juvenile Detention Center was operational, following the hiring of staff and completion of necessary preparations.

The center officially began receiving detained children on January 14, 1974, marking the culmination of years of planning and effort. Since then, the HJDC and the Commission have continued to grow into what we are today in an effort to meet the needs of court-involved youth in our region.