NCJ Number
141042
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 54 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1992) Pages: 88,90,92,94
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Construction of a New York prison in the late 1980's reflects a functional, utilitarian design using typical building materials such as wood, concrete, and glass.
Abstract
The first and most important step in prison construction was to involve end users in facility design and programming. These users included corrections officers, sergeants, and lieutenants. The next step was to communicate ideas to noncorrectional personnel who eventually designed and built the facility. In addition, consideration had to be given to how special equipment would perform. Before any high technology equipment was adopted for use, several test sites were established to provide real life exposure to products and how they would perform in New York's correctional environment. New York's corrections commissioner at the time also appointed a committee of wardens to visit several States that were building new prisons. The wardens were directed to bring back ideas, consider their own experiences, and work with architects. It was determined that efficiency and basic prison construction provide the best value for taxpayers.