“Impressive strides” are being made on the $1.7b New Amsterdam Prison complex, according to a release yesterday from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The complex is undergoing significant transformation and aims to revolutionize the prison system and enhance security measures while focusing on prisoner rehabilitation and reintegration, the release said.
Under the guidance of Andre Ally, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, a comprehensive inspection was conducted on Friday to evaluate the progress of various construction lots vital for improving the prison’s facilities.
During his visit, the release said that Ally inspected ten distinct lots, with notable advancements observed in Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10, where substantial work is ongoing.
Lot 1: With an allocated budget exceeding $85 million, the construction of three senior officers’ living quarters is progressing and is at 57 percent completion, with electrical, plumbing works and block works ongoing.
Lot 2: With this aspect at 70% completion, the construction of male and female living quarters is on track, with the allocated budget exceeding $114 million.
Lot 3: Despite delays due to site possession issues, the construction of the kitchen and storage bond is progressing well. This lot, budgeted at over $69 million, has reached 57 percent completion.
Lot 4: Reconstruction of the Officer’s Sports Club is at 83% completion, with electrical, plumbing, and finishing works ongoing, with a considerable budget exceeding $53 million.
Lot 5: Construction of the reception building, at 52% completion, is progressing well, with ongoing structural and block works, electrical, plumbing, and plastering. This aspect is being done at a cost of over $413 million.
Lot 10: Construction of the training facility for inmates is at 50% completion, with ongoing block work and steel structure installation, at an investment exceeding $123 million.
In addition to the progress made in the highlighted areas, the release said that Lots 6 through 10 are in the mobilization stage and encompass critical aspects such as the infirmary annex, overhead storage tank, treatment plant, reconstruction of solitary and cell blocks, and a training facility for inmates.
