Some cells have been turned into interview rooms and offices. Privacy partitions have been installed in the showers. Following a recommendation from the Department of Corrections, ladders were installed for women inmates to more easily reach the upper bunks. The bunk's height of 60 inches could be difficult for some women to climb on and off, but it's a luxury that EOCI staff expect to hear complaints about from the male inmates. That has included painting, plumbing and electrical work, as well as making the ladders and welding them to the metal bunks.
More work still awaits.
For example, the exercise yard is a muddy mess and will remain that way for the time being. The yard will have a covered sitting area, bleachers and a walking track. But other features will await the new inmates. Possibilities include basketball, volleyball or badminton courts, but all will depend on what the women are interested in. There are several pieces of exercise equipment indoors and plans for aerobics courses.