News Summary
Construction has commenced on a new prison in Lincoln, Nebraska, aimed at replacing the aging state penitentiary. The $312 million project seeks to address overcrowding and enhance inmate rehabilitation. Hausmann Construction has been awarded the contract and is set to complete the facility in 1,110 days, with an expected opening in mid-August 2028. The new facility is designed to improve living conditions and safety features while allowing for expanded inmate programs.
Nebraska Begins Construction of New 1,512-Bed Prison in Lincoln
Lincoln, Nebraska – Construction has officially begun on a new state prison in Lincoln, marking a significant step toward replacing the aging Nebraska State Penitentiary. The project, valued at more than $312 million, aims to address overcrowding and enhance safety and rehabilitation programs for inmates.
Initial Construction Activities Underway
On Wednesday, early signs of construction were observed at the site, located just north of Interstate 80 and accessible via North 70th Street. The initial phase involved clearing weeds and grass to prepare the land for further development. Construction officially started last Tuesday, with the contractor, Hausmann Construction, based in Lincoln, leading the effort.
Contract Secured with Hausmann Construction
The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services finalized a contract worth $312,259,000 with Hausmann Construction on July 24. Hausmann was selected after submitting the lowest bid among several competing firms; its bid was approximately $313.3 million. Other bids received included a joint venture between Sampson Construction and Caddell Construction at $344.3 million and Clark Construction with MCL Construction at $341 million.
Design and Funding Details
The new 1,512-bed facility is designed to replace the outdated Nebraska State Penitentiary and provide additional space for inmate programs, safety features for staff, and improved living conditions. The project is funded by a $350 million appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature. According to officials, the project is expected to stay within this budget allocation.
Already, Nebraska has invested approximately $33.8 million in land acquisition and design work, with the design phase handled by Omaha-based firm DLR Group.
Construction Timeline and Oversight
Hausmann Construction has a timeline of 1,110 days to substantially complete the prison, with a target opening date anticipated around mid-August 2028. A scheduled meeting on Friday will involve Hausmann and state officials to discuss pre-construction details, ensuring the project stays on track.
The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services has emphasized their intention to continuously evaluate the project’s progress and efficiencies throughout construction, aiming to ensure timely and budget-conscious completion.
Expected Impact and Features of the New Facility
The new prison is intended to alleviate overcrowding in the current facility and support expanded inmate programs, including vocational training and treatment services. It will also incorporate enhanced safety features for correctional staff and security personnel, reflecting modern standards for correctional institutions.
Additional Context and Related Activities
While construction has begun on the Lincoln prison, Hausmann Construction remains involved in a concurrent legal matter in Iowa. The firm is engaged in a lawsuit related to the Woodbury County Law Enforcement Center project, alleging non-payment and reputational damage by other parties.
Despite this legal complication, Nebraska officials affirm their commitment to completing the project efficiently and within budget, citing the importance of the new facility in their correctional strategy.
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Additional Resources
- Nebraska Examiner: Hausmann Construction Chosen for New Prison
- KLKN TV: Nebraska Accepts $313 Million Bid for New Prison
- Journal Star: New Nebraska Prison Update
- Wikipedia: Prison Reform in the United States
- Google Search: Nebraska Prison Construction
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