New facility plans aim to transform women's correctional system
August 28, 2024 | Justice Oversight, Joint, Committees, Legislative , Vermont
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In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant updates regarding the replacement of Vermont's women's correctional facility and the proposed juvenile justice facility. The current Chittenden Correctional Facility (CCF) is deemed outdated and inefficient, prompting the need for a new facility that meets modern programmatic needs. The Department of Corrections (DOC) highlighted two primary reasons for the replacement: the facility's age and its inability to accommodate current operational requirements.
Commissioner Nick Delmon emphasized the importance of maintaining access to essential services for inmates, which are predominantly located in the Chittenden County area. The proposed new facility aims to be situated within this region to ensure continuity of care and support for the women incarcerated there. The design of the new facility will incorporate evidence-based design principles, focusing on creating a more humane and supportive environment for inmates.
The meeting also addressed the ongoing site selection process, with two potential locations in Essex being considered. Officials noted the importance of public engagement and the need for zoning adjustments to facilitate the construction of the new facility. The estimated cost for the new women's facility is projected at around $70 million, with current funding at approximately $15.5 million. The timeline for completion is contingent on securing sufficient funding and navigating the permitting process, which could take three to five years.
Additionally, discussions included the need for a new juvenile justice facility to replace the aging Woodside facility. The state is committed to ensuring that both facilities are designed to meet contemporary standards and provide effective rehabilitation services.
As the planning progresses, officials are keen to engage with the community and stakeholders to address concerns and gather support for these critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving the state's correctional and juvenile justice systems.
Commissioner Nick Delmon emphasized the importance of maintaining access to essential services for inmates, which are predominantly located in the Chittenden County area. The proposed new facility aims to be situated within this region to ensure continuity of care and support for the women incarcerated there. The design of the new facility will incorporate evidence-based design principles, focusing on creating a more humane and supportive environment for inmates.
The meeting also addressed the ongoing site selection process, with two potential locations in Essex being considered. Officials noted the importance of public engagement and the need for zoning adjustments to facilitate the construction of the new facility. The estimated cost for the new women's facility is projected at around $70 million, with current funding at approximately $15.5 million. The timeline for completion is contingent on securing sufficient funding and navigating the permitting process, which could take three to five years.
Additionally, discussions included the need for a new juvenile justice facility to replace the aging Woodside facility. The state is committed to ensuring that both facilities are designed to meet contemporary standards and provide effective rehabilitation services.
As the planning progresses, officials are keen to engage with the community and stakeholders to address concerns and gather support for these critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving the state's correctional and juvenile justice systems.
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