A legislative panel advanced the Department of Corrections’ request for the transfer of $75 million in state restricted reserve funds for the proposed North Central Unit expansion in Calico Rock on Tuesday.
The council’s performance evaluation and expenditure review subcommittee recommended the Legislative Council approve the fund transfer request without any questions from lawmakers. They are set to meet Friday.
Arkansas Department of Corrections Chairman Benny Magness states once the funds have been distributed, the next step will be to finalize a design. The initial request for the $75 million is based on an estimate from three years ago, and could change after the new design has been presented. An architect for the project was selected last Friday and they expect to have the final plans within four to six months.
The funding will be used for initial costs associated with the expansion and is projected to add 498 beds to the facility and bring a minimum of 70 jobs.
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