Prison & Jail Construction

Modern correctional facilities require extensive experience to design and construct. Sundt has been working on detention facilities for over three decades and understands their unique requirements and complexities. In addition, our staff collectively has designed and constructed over 100,000 detention beds in various custody levels. Sundt takes a holistic approach during the design and construction phases to assist in sightline studies, inmate management and transfer, and staff safety.

Through our comprehensive use of Building Information Modeling (BIM), issues can be analyzed and evaluated during the design phase. Cell interior layout review prior to construction is invaluable in identifying and correcting issues that might cause problems in the future. During construction, we use full-size mock-ups of cells and plumbing chases to assure all items will fit appropriately. Security electronics panel mock-ups are an opportunity to work through any dimensional, location, or other potential layout issues.

Sundt completes a comprehensive review of the design to identify any early or special procurement items required for the project. Early procurement of long-lead items such as precast cells, electrical gear, security hardware, and security doors is evaluated to determine the appropriate acquisition schedule for these items. This information is incorporated into the schedule to assure that materials are on site when needed. There is no learning curve when Sundt is on your project.

The design and construction of correctional facilities have special needs that require ongoing oversight by the entire team. Our staff is experienced in the design, construction, and operation of correctional facilities and provides valuable input on issues such as:

• Ensuring that the facility's design does not create hazards for staff, visitors, or inmates.
• Furnishings and walls are designed so that they do not cause potential hazards during altercations.
• Use of materials that can withstand heavy use by inmates and staff without breaking and thereby providing inmates with weapons.
• All sight lines are optimized to ensure full view of inmate activities.
• Ensuring that there are no cubby holes or "blind spots" where staff or inmates can be assaulted.
• Making sure that no metal, plastic, or tools are left behind that could be used as weapons.
• Long-term operating and life-cycle costs are considered for optimum performance.
• Circulation within the facility and grounds does not produce conflicts between public, staff, and inmates.
• Minimizing the number of entrances/exits to reduce security breaches.
• Entrances and exits are properly screened from the public or inmates.
• Selection of landscaping that is easy to maintain and does not create security concerns.
• Buildings are appropriate in height and location, and do not cause security breaches.
• Recreation yards are located so that the public cannot throw objects to inmates.
• Lighting meets security needs.