Why Modular Correctional Facilities Make Sense Today

Correctional facilities in many parts of the country are facing serious problems when it comes to overcrowding. The problem does not appear to be going away any time soon. The cost of constructing new correctional facilities to meet the demands in an area is becoming prohibitive. A solution is to construct correctional facilities using modular design methods. Modular correctional facilities have a number of advantages.

Cost

One of the factors that prison construction companies must deal with is cost. Modular buildings used as correction facilities are very cost-effective. The bulk of the construction occurs in a factory so work site issues, lost supplies and damage from weather during construction are not an issue. 

Expansion Options

Many correctional facilities are already designed in a modular layout or sections. This is done for several reasons including better security for workers and the people living around the facility. The modular design makes it very easy to expand the facility as needed. The facility can add new housing units or other rooms as necessary. Additionally, smaller freestanding modular buildings can be constructed quickly on the property for special purposes.

Solid Construction

Prison construction requires durable materials and modern techniques in order to create a solid and secure facility that will last for a long time. Correctional facilities receive more wear and strain than most other buildings because of the volume of people coming through. A modular correctional facility is created in a factory using best practices and accurate tools. The walls are allowed to cure inside instead of while exposed to the weather to increase strength. Final assembly is simple so that the facility will have no weak points once it is completed. Additionally, modular correctional facilities meet or exceed all local and state building codes and security measures.

Flexibility

Modular design allows for an increased level of flexibility. Each of the modules that make up the facility can be customized with surveillance equipment or other essential tools for guards and staff. The individual modules make it simple to design a facility that takes maximum advantage of the space while also creating a secure interior layout. Parts of a modular facility can even be disassembled or changed over the years without affecting other parts of the building.

The Advantages and Importance of Modular Housing for Correctional Facilities

One in every hundred people are incarcerated in the United States today. Due to these high numbers, correctional facilities are overcrowded and in need of inmate housing. Many inmates are facing poor sleeping conditions because of a lack of space including makeshift cots on hard concrete floors. Correctional facilities are choosing modular prison housing as an efficient and quick space solution to ease overcrowding.

Modular housing is a more time efficient solution to inmate overcrowding because buildings can be completed 30-50 percent faster than with traditional construction. This is particularly helpful for correctional facilities needing an immediate solution. In addition to its speed, modular construction also results in less site disruption and reduced material waste.

Modular buildings can be custom designed to suit the needs of each correctional facility with many flexible design options. The different modular options include inmate housing, minimum and medium security buildings, medical facilities, juvenile detention facilities and guard houses.  Buildings can be a temporary or permanent solutions and range from single story open floor bunking to multi-story secluded dormitories.

Modular buildings meet or exceed the same construction codes as traditionally built inmate facilities. In addition, modular buildings adhere to all federal, local and state security and safety concerns. Buildings can be equipped with bulletproof glass, surveillance systems and security doors.

Modular construction is the best way to meet the needs of inmates and the community.