Bossier Parish Maximum Security Facility
In 2005, Grace Hebert Curtis Architects designed one of the most modern, high-functioning justice facilities in the country: Bossier Parish Maximum Security Facility. Shortly after, when Hurricane Katrina displaced nearly 6,000 incarcerated people, the then-brand-new Bossier Parish Maximum Security Facility accelerated its opening timeline to house 500 inmates of varying need and classification, working almost perfectly from day one.
The new maximum-security facility shares a campus with an existing 600-bed medium-security facility, a 250-bed minimum-security facility and a 100-bed work release center also owned by the parish. It was originally built to address Bossier Parish’s own growing correctional needs and replaced an overcrowded and outdated 1970s-era facility located on the fifth floor of the local courthouse.
During the design process, Grace Hebert Curtis Architects developed a complete computer model of the facility and worked alongside Bossier Parish correctional officials to determine the ideal level of visual supervision, integrating feedback and making necessary adjustments. The result is a simple but highly effective structure that features open lines of sight and functions exactly as intended.
The facility is also outfitted with a wireless communication system that allowed Bossier Parish to save money during construction. Additional amenities include a full commercial kitchen, laundry, booking and administration areas. A well-equipped medical unit meets the care needs of inmates in all facilities operated by the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.
The project also introduced the now-common concept of video visitation as a way to limit the introduction of contraband into the facility. The video visitation area is located in a separate building to further increase security. Inmates can participate in video visitation sessions directly from their housing pods.
Project Size: 140,000 square feet
Location: Plain Dealing, LA
Completed: 2005
Fully Equipped Facility
The facility is equipped with 288 cells, including both single- and double-occupancy, offering broad classification flexibility. Housing pods are equipped with video visitation, classrooms and their own outdoor exercise facilities, eliminating the need for inmates to leave their pods.
Monitoring Made Easy
Operators can monitor the entire facility, including both indoor and outdoor spaces, from a central control room.
Introducing New Technology
New technology was installed to provide video arraignment, which reduces the need to transport inmates to court.
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