Gov. Holcomb breaks ground on $1.2 billion Westville prison project
Contributed By: The 411 News
Will consolidate Michigan City state prison and Westville, adding 240 beds for mental health treatment
Westville, Ind. –Governor Eric J. Holcomb was in Westville recently to break ground on a new correctional facility that will consolidate the Indiana State Prison and the Westville Correctional Facility.
The 1.4 million square foot facility will provide a modern and efficient space for both incarcerated individuals and Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) staff who work in the facility.
“Now more than ever it is crucial that we upgrade, modernize and expand our facilities that provide essential government services,” said Gov. Holcomb. “We are consolidating and building the largest correctional facility in the state with much-needed security upgrades, expanded health care and education services and an enhanced recidivism program for incarcerated individuals. The upgrades will ensure that this facility is a safe space for the incarcerated as well as correctional staff members.”
When completed in 2027, the correctional facility will house up to 4,200 men and will improve operational efficiency for IDOC employees.
It will include a specialized unit with 240 beds specific for mental health treatment. The facility will also provide programming space for vocational and academic training, including on unit programming space to allow programs to continue through lockdowns and outbreaks.
“This facility is focused on safety and security, while also offering a more modern and comfortable work environment for our staff and more programming and rehabilitation opportunities for the incarcerated population,” IDOC Commissioner Christina Reagle said.
The $1.2 billion project will also have a significant impact on LaPorte County over the next three years, with the addition of more than 1,500 high-skilled construction jobs and the retention of more than 900 jobs.
Once complete, staff from the current Westville Correctional Facility and the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City will work in the new facility and no jobs will be lost as a result of this consolidation. Incarcerated individuals from both facilities will be transferred to the new prison or sent to another IDOC facility.
Story Posted:10/08/2023
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