Within a few short months, a new women's prison emerged on this vacant lot. This prototype design has been replicated on most of California's new prison construction projects, saving the state time and money. Crews assemble the walls, columns and beams which will make up the new prison.
Workers complete cell doors at the new Central California women's prison.
The crane operator slowly lowers a beam into place. A typical new Level III facility has two rows of individual cells which overlook a day room. In only 10 years, the number of felons in California's state prison system increased nearly four-fold. With no new prisons since 1965, existing facilities became increasingly overcrowded. Overcrowding enhanced the potential for prison violence and heightened concern for staff safety.