A contract will be awarded next month for the construction of a new $25-million jail on the site of the North Bay Psychiatric Hospital, Premier Mike Harris announced recently.
In a news release, the Nipissing MPP said the Near North Correctional Complex project, announced a year ago, includes construction of a 192-bed maximum-security unit and a renovation and security retrofit at the existing psychiatric hospital.
The renovation project will result in a 50-bed secure treatment unit. Harris said the modern design and security features will be the same as those introduced at the recently expanded Maplehurst Correctional Complex in Milton and the new maximum security correctional facilities in Penetanguishene and Lindsay.
The project is expected to create 430 construction-related jobs. A request for proposals has been issued for architectural services for expansion of the complex. While conceptual designs for the project have been developed by the Ministry of Correctional Services, architects are invited to submit proposals to provide professional services in the development of the design, said Harris. They will work closely with the general contractor throughout construction of the project, he added.
