NCJ Number
77097
Date Published
1981
Length
12 pages
Annotation
The rationale and planning for the construction of a new maximum-security prison in Minnesota are discussed.
Abstract
In 1973, the Minnesota legislature passed the Community Corrections Act, which encourages local counties to divert offenders from the State correctional institutions by offering financial incentives for retaining offenders at the local level. The passing of this act also produced discussions about the handling of offenders who could not be handled in community corrections programs. Coincidentally, during 1973, prison disorders occurred in the State prison at Stillwater, prompting a legislative investigation in 1975. The resultant report called for dramatic changes at Stillwater and, most important, gave legislators backing for a major facility to replace the old maximum-security facility at Stillwater. The 1976 legislature provided funds to develop preliminary architectural plans for a high-security institution. The task force, which was charged with the architectural planning and design for the 400-bed facility, directed its attention toward the components of administration and public areas, program and activity, physical and mental health, housing, and service and support. For each component, the task force diagnosed the physical requirements in space and facilities, and then it diagrammed how the needs of one component could be meshed with the needs of the other. The goals of the new facility were to create an environment free of violence, to provide opportunities for work and other activities akin to those in the outside world, and to eliminate monotony for the inmates. The new plan also aimed at greater emphasis on control through an environment that offered opportunities for work, leisure, and personal interaction with staff. One special unit was provided for severe disciplinary cases. Notes are provided.