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Ground Breaking: Rikers Island Admissions Facility

December 18, 2013

On a vast plot of land on Rikers Island, community leaders gathered to break ground on a new admissions facility that will make intake and discharge processes calmer and safer for inmates, officers and the community. The new 620,000 square-foot facility will be among the City’s largest civic projects.

While bed capacity will not increase—modular, temporary structures will be demolished to make room—this new structure will be a central point that allows for consistent, accurate evaluation of incoming inmates’ risk of recidivism and need for services, such as mental health or substance use treatment. “This project represents a new generation in the designs that promote better conditions for both inmates and officers,” said DDC Commissioner Burney. “This jail, designed by 1100 Architects and Ricci Greene Associates, will be secure, environmentally sustainable, and help lay the groundwork for inmates to re-enter their communities, which ultimately benefits us all.”