Case Spotlight: Nebraska, USA
Nebraska Department of Correctional Services
Aging infrastructure remains a pressing issue for correctional systems in the United States, and Nebraska is no exception. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) is confronted with facilities that not only face frequent mechanical, electrical, and plumbing failures but also reflect outdated designs that are difficult to align with current staffing models and a rehabilitative focus.
One of the most pressing concerns has been the future of the Nebraska State Penitentiary, the state’s oldest correctional facility. Opened in 1869, it has undergone numerous additions and renovations over the years, however, significant maintenance issues and the physical plant layout continue to be a challenge.
The NDCS undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the Nebraska State Penitentiary to determine whether renovating the existing facility or building a new one would better serve its needs. Among the key factors considered was the challenge of completing construction work in an active correctional environment. For safety reasons, secure fencing would have to be erected around any construction areas and removed once the work was complete. This process would add time, costs, and logistical complications to the project.
Space constraints were another critical factor, as carrying out renovations and demolitions in an active facility would require a phased approach, significantly extending the project’s timeline and increasing costs.
Ultimately, the answer became clear: It was time for a new facility to replace the Nebraska State Penitentiary. This decision allows the department to address not only its current challenges but also its long term goals by designing a facility specifically tailored to support rehabilitation and re-entry.
The NDCS is taking full advantage of this opportunity to create a modern facility that supports its rehabilitative mission. Experts in vocational training, medical care, food services, education, and other key areas were consulted to develop a programme statement that reflects the needs of the incarcerated population, staff, and broader community.
The new facility will feature a correctional normative architectural design, prioritising elements that encourage successful rehabilitation. This includes the integration of natural light through solar tubes, clerestory windows, and large exterior windows. Soothing colours and nature-inspired wall graphics will create a calming atmosphere, fostering a connection to the outside world and reinforcing the focus on rehabilitation.
The new facility’s layout will directly support rehabilitation and re-entry efforts. Housing units will include spaces for programmes, allowing activities to take place within the units themselves. Additional support buildings on the campus will house classrooms, vocational training spaces, and programme rooms. These features highlight the NDCS’s commitment to creating opportunities for meaningful change.
Technology will play a key role in the new facility’s design. The NDCS plans to implement electronic systems to streamline daily tasks for staff and ensure efficient facility operations. Additionally, the department is integrating technology to enhance vocational and educational training opportunities. By equipping individuals with critical technological skills, the facility will help prepare them for successful reintegration into society.
With the construction of this new facility, the NDCS is making a pivotal investment in the future of Nebraska’s correctional system. The project represents more than just a structural upgrade—it is a commitment to creating an environment where rehabilitation and reintegration are not just possible but prioritised.
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