Overview
New York City is implementing the Borough-Based Jail Program (BBJ), an initiative focused on the construction of new detention facilities. This program entails building four new jails across different boroughs: Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx. These new facilities are designed to facilitate the relocation of inmates currently held at Rikers Island.
Research Context
The NYC Borough-Based Jail Program commenced in 2017. The New York City Department of Design and Construction largely oversees this program. The architectural designs for these projects are being featured as part of this initiative.
Approach
The program involves the construction of new jails from the ground up. The design overview specifically examines the architecture of each of these four projects.
Findings
- New York City plans to relocate inmates from Rikers Island.
- The relocation will be to four new jails.
- These jails will be built from the ground up.
- The locations for these new jails are Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx.
- The NYC Borough-Based Jail Program was initiated in 2017.
- The New York City Department of Design and Construction has significant oversight of the BBJ program.
Why This Matters
The plan to construct new, borough-based correctional facilities and relocate inmates signifies a substantial change in New York City's approach to its correctional system, replacing the existing Rikers Island operations. The architectural design of these new facilities is a key component of this program.