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Initial Planning Reduces Prison Liability Problems

NCJ Number
109093
Journal
American City and County Volume: 102 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1987) Pages: 76,79-80
Editor(s)
K Anderberg
Date Published
1987
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Overcrowding, coupled with inmates rights regarding prison standards and services, requires careful planning and design of correctional facilities to reduce the possibility of future liability.
Abstract
First, it must be determined how large a facility is needed and how it will be run. A study of existing facilities should be conducted, and a steering committee including representatives of all aspects of the criminal justice system should be established. A planning team, reflecting the interactive process, should include public officials, client-operators, architects, engineers, and other consultants. A mission statement should specify the population served, service delivery needs, and standards to be met. A programming questionnaire and discussion can help establish operational goals for the mission statement. Operational groups then can be established to consider such issues as custody, food services, administration, management, health services, intake, recreation, and industry. Schematic designs then are developed to ensure optimal operating efficiency. The final plan then is formulated and reviewed. This planning process should be repeated during the design development and construction phases.