Illinois officials have announced plans to construct two new correctional facilities in the southwest suburb of Crest Hill, marking a major step in the state’s effort to replace aging prison infrastructure, according to NBC Chicago.
The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) confirmed that a new 1,500-bed men’s prison and an 800-bed women’s prison will be built on the site of the former Stateville Correctional Center in Will County. The project is part of a nearly $900 million state investment aimed at modernizing correctional facilities and improving rehabilitation services for incarcerated individuals.
The new facilities will replace Stateville Correctional Center and Logan Correctional Center in Lincoln. State officials say both institutions have significant infrastructure issues, with some buildings dating back nearly a century. The new prisons are expected to feature updated housing units, educational and vocational programming, medical and mental health services, recreational areas, and re-entry resources designed to support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.
According to IDOC, locating both facilities in Crest Hill will allow the state to share infrastructure and resources, reducing construction and operational costs while shortening the overall project timeline. Officials also noted that the location places many incarcerated individuals closer to family members and support systems in the Chicago area.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Crest Hill leaders welcomed the project, citing the potential for construction and long-term employment opportunities. However, officials in Lincoln and Logan County criticized the decision, arguing that the closure of Logan Correctional Center could negatively impact the local economy and force employees to relocate or seek new jobs.
Construction timelines have not yet been finalized, but state officials estimate the project could take approximately five years to complete.
