- Why is there so much glass?
The glass on the exterior of the building not only blends with the surroundings of Clayton, it also allows us the opportunity to place the pipe chases along the rear of the cells. This design also led us to the concept of "borrowed light", thus bringing natural light to flow into the housing units, which is required to meet the standards set by the American Correctional Association.
- Why are there no bars?
It is very expensive to put steel bars on every cell in the facility. The wooden doors also allows officers to do their job without inmates throwing things at them, which is very demeaning.
- Why is there carpet in the dayrooms?
Carpet was installed, not for the inmates, but for the officer working in the housing unit. The acoustical qualities of carpet lower the noise level in the housing unit so the officer can better manage the housing unit.
- Why do inmates get luxuries such as a recreation area and TV with Cable?
Recreation of inmates is required by the standards set by the American Correctional Association. It also allows the inmate to exercise and expend energy. The TV is equipped with cable for educational purposes. Channels, which are not favorable for inmate behavior, such as music channels, are blocked. The TV and all recreation equipment are paid for out of inmate funds and not taken out of the County budget funded by taxpayers.
- Isn't this jail too nice for inmates?
The Justice Center was not built for the inmates; it was built for the staff who have to work in the jail 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Staff members deserve an environment which allows them to perform their duties safely and keep inmates secure. Furthermore, by providing a safe work environment, it allows for the recruitment of quality corrections staff.
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