Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker, in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), has announced a plan to allocate capital funds for the reconstruction of Logan Correctional Center in Lincoln and Stateville Correctional Center in Crest Hill. This initiative aims to address critical infrastructure issues at these facilities, which have faced years of disinvestment.

The proposed funding is part of Governor Pritzker's FY25 budget proposal presented to the General Assembly. The capital investments are expected to save the state significant amounts in deferred maintenance and annual upkeep costs by focusing on facilities with substantial maintenance needs.

"The capital funds dedicated to Stateville and Logan further demonstrate our commitment to continuing to rebuild and strengthen our state's infrastructure," said Governor JB Pritzker. "These investments will allow staff to work in modern and safe facilities, ensure those who are incarcerated can safely serve out their sentences, and save taxpayers hundreds of millions in deferred maintenance costs from years of neglect."

The IDOC plans to collaborate with the Capital Development Board and other stakeholders on developing a timeline for the projects, contingent upon capital appropriations in the FY25 budget. Stateville is expected to be temporarily closed, demolished, and rebuilt on its current site. Discussions regarding Logan's status are ongoing.

Estimated construction costs range from $805 million to $935 million. The governor's proposed budget includes $900 million for these projects, which are anticipated to yield long-term savings by reducing overtime, maintenance, and utility expenses.

A 2023 CGL report identified these facilities as priorities based on their infrastructure needs. In compliance with the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA) process, construction will only begin once all requirements under the State Facilities Closure Act are satisfied. The design and completion of new facilities are projected within three to five years.

"This plan marks a pivotal moment in IDOC's ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of our staff and the individuals in our care," said Latoya Hughes, Acting Director of IDOC. "These investments underscore Illinois' unwavering commitment to implementing modernized and secure correctional environments while taking a fiscally responsible approach."

Ahmadou Dramé, Director of the Illinois Justice Project, emphasized their support for reducing incarceration rates while advocating for safe conditions within correctional facilities: "We will continue to work with advocates and policymakers alike to reduce incarceration and create humane conditions for those who are incarcerated."