WESTVILLE, Ind.—Progress continues on the massive new correctional facility in Westville, with an estimated opening date in the second quarter of 2027.
Governor Eric J. Holcomb broke ground in late 2023 on the new 1.4 million-square-foot facility that aims to provide a modern and efficient space for both incarcerated individuals and Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) staff who work in the facility.
“Now more than ever it is crucial that we upgrade, modernize and expand our facilities that provide essential government services,” said Gov. Holcomb. “We are consolidating and building the largest correctional facility in the state with much-needed security upgrades, expanded health care and education services and an enhanced recidivism program for incarcerated individuals. The upgrades will ensure that this facility is a safe space for the incarcerated as well as correctional staff members.”
This facility consolidates the Indiana State Prison and the Westville Correctional Facility to better provide essential services to incarcerated individuals. The correctional facility will house up to 4,200 men and will improve operational efficiency for IDOC employees.
The Westville Correctional Facility will be completed in early 2027 and will include a specialized unit with 240 beds specific for mental health treatment. The facility will also provide programming space for vocational and academic training, including on unit programming space to allow programs to continue through lockdowns and outbreaks.
“This facility is focused on safety and security, while also offering a more modern and comfortable work environment for our staff and more programming and rehabilitation opportunities for the incarcerated population,” IDOC Commissioner Christina Reagle said.
The $1.2 billion project will also have a significant impact on LaPorte County, with the addition of more than 1,500 high-skilled construction jobs and the retention of more than 900 jobs.
Once complete, staff from the current Westville Correctional Facility and the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City will work in the new facility and no jobs are expected to be lost as a result of this consolidation. Incarcerated individuals from both facilities will be transferred to the new prison or sent to another IDOC facility.
The facility was designed by Elevatus Architecture, based in Fort Wayne, Ind. Their approach was to incorporate modern security features and areas for rehabilitation programs, emphasizing both safety and functionality.
The construction is being overseen by a joint venture known as Build Westville, which includes F.A. Wilhelm Construction, Granger Construction, and Garmong Construction Services. Companies like SteelCell are also contributing to the project by incorporating precast steel modular cells, boosting project efficiency.
