On Wednesday, Governor Jim Pillen, Director Rob Jeffreys and other representatives from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) and the state gathered for the groundbreaking of a new multi-lockdown facility north of Interstate 80 and east of Interstate 70.th Street in northeast Lincoln.
“Today is an important day for our agency, the state of Nebraska and the future of corrections,” said NDCS Director Rob Jeffreys. “The innovative, energy-efficient and sustainable design elements of this facility will create an environment for safe and transformative rehabilitation, as well as reduce long-term operating costs and increase staff efficiency.”
“This facility not only meets the highest security standards, but also provides opportunities for education, job training and programming – things that are necessary as NDCS continues to pursue its Reentry 2030 initiative launched this year,” said Governor Jim Pillen. “The features of the new facility will benefit both the inmates and the officers who work there.”
This facility will replace the Nebraska State Penitentiary, the oldest facility in the NDCS system. Parts of this campus date back to 1869. Over the decades, the campus has been expanded and remodeled to keep the facility functional, but the facility’s age and configuration have made it difficult to operate as a modern correctional facility.
The new design of the multi-custody facility utilizes the latest trends in correctional architecture and will incorporate natural light and acoustics that ensure appropriate noise levels throughout the facility. These normative spaces will support the facility’s rehabilitative mission and the mental and physical well-being of residents and staff.
The facility’s campus will include a maximum/medium custody area and a minimum custody area. Rehabilitation program spaces will be located directly in the housing units, while work spaces will be scattered throughout the facility.
Grading of the site began in May. Approximately 1.4 million cubic meters of earth will be moved to level the site and prepare it for construction. Bidding for the contractor for the facility will begin later this year. The facility is expected to be completed in May 2028.
