NCJ Number
214840
Journal
Corrections Today Magazine Volume: 68 Issue: 3 Dated: June 2006 Pages: 62-65
Date Published
June 2006
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the planning and construction of a new jail in Ontario County, NY.
Abstract
In 1997, Ontario County recognized the need to construct a new 300-bed jail facility, which would be the largest public works construction project ever undertaken by the Ontario County government. A Jail Capital Project Committee with five county supervisors was appointed to oversee the project. Following research and site visits to newly constructed correctional facilities, the Committee decided to hire a program management firm, an architecture firm, and a construction manager to provide the expertise necessary to avoid the pitfalls common to the construction of new correctional facilities. Initial steps for the program management firm involved developing an architectural space program, evaluating and selecting a construction site, developing a preliminary project budget, and hiring an architect and construction manager. Aspects of planning the facility are described, including the collaborative nature of the planning process, the comprehensive review process, and the decision making process regarding tensions between facility requirements and budgetary concerns. Recommendations are offered from the Ontario County correctional staff on selecting an appropriate program manager to guide the planning, design, and construction of new correctional facilities, including the advice to chose a program manager with public relations skills and with a firm knowledge of design and construction conditions. Ontario’s new 276-bed jail facility was opened in October 2003, approximately $1 million under budget. Photographs