NCJ Number
100100
Date Published
1984
Length
60 pages
Annotation
This monograph presents information on and evaluates the current use of premanufactured correctional facilities, including a cost-benefit analysis of such facilities compared with conventional facilities.
Abstract
As discussed in this report, premanufactured correctional facilities are modular units with components -- such as walls, floors, and roofs -- preassembled and delivered as a unit to the site. Conventional units are those constructed entirely on the site. Characteristics of premanufactured correctional facilities are discussed based on surveys of State departments of corrections and manufacturers of modular correctional facilities. Eight examples of specific premanufactured correctional facilities are briefly described. Onsite visits were conducted for 16 premanufactured facilities based on geographical distribution, variation in types of space provided, differing security levels, and type of construction. As many different manufacturers as possible were also represented. Comparison with conventional facilities similar in size and function were made in of cost per square foot and per inmate, staffing, maintenance problems, quality of life and satisfaction, and the time required for design and construction. Findings indicate that premanufactured facilities can be built three times faster than conventional facilities but at a cost substantially higher than the averages most often quoted by manufactuers' representatives. A checklist is provided for evaluating the feasibility of premanufactured and conventionally constructed facilities. Construction trends are appraised. The names, addresses, and phone numbers of premanufactured facilities throughout the country are listed.