Land for new prison cheaper than planned

The acquisition of land to build the anticipated new state prison on the west side of the Salt Lake Valley has been completed — and for a cost far below what was expected. The 323-acre site, located near I-80 and 7200 West, was purchased by the state’s Division of Facilities Construction and Management (DFCM) for $12.4 million. Early estimates had pegged the cost as high as $30 million.

The location was selected by the Prison Relocation Committee last summer and includes enough property for the planned facility plus associated infrastructure. Construction of the new prison is scheduled to begin later this year and will require approximately four years to complete.

“Since the first studies on a new correctional facility began more than 10 years ago, our priority has been to ensure the best use and return on every dollar spent,” Gov. Gary Herbert said. “The new facility will provide for the most modern, effective and efficient criminal justice system in the country — a prudent system that will keep our communities safe, reduce recidivism and respect the taxpayer.”

The land purchased has been thoroughly studied for potential environmental constraints, construction and infrastructure costs and compatibility with adjacent land uses, and was found to be the best specific area in the Salt Lake City site. The DFCM said in a release. These site assessments and careful study on how to protect wetlands and other environmentally sensitive areas on the site resulted in the state being able to purchase far less land than anticipated, the division statement said.

“This specific site best meets the needs of the Department of Corrections staff, volunteers and inmates, while at the same time addressing the interests of the community and environmental stakeholders we have worked with,” said Eric Tholen, DCFM director. “The purchase is a significant milestone in the relocation process and we are looking forward to beginning work onsite in the coming months.”

The new correctional facility will allow the state to expand treatment and educational programs that will make the public safer by reducing the chance that people will commit new crimes after release, said the Utah Department of Corrections.