The province announced on October 13 that it will fund the construction of two new expansion projects at the Thunder Bay Correctional Centre and Kenora Jail.

Details of the projects were not released, but the government indicated the structures will help address overcrowding during construction of the new Thunder Bay Correctional Complex, and allow for increased access to literacy, skills development and technology programs that support safe community reintegration.

Indigenous leadership and organizations will have input into the design of the new spaces and other culturally appropriate aspects of the facilities.

"Our government is taking action to improve the safety of corrections staff and inmates while providing culturally appropriate programming and services for Indigenous individuals," said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones. "These measures will strengthen Ontario's corrections system and support public safety in the Thunder Bay and Kenora regions."

The projects are part of the government's strategy to invest more than $500 million over five years to transform correctional services and improve health and safety through new hiring and infrastructure improvements.

"These projects support our goal of ensuring the province's justice system is responsive to the needs of Indigenous people and communities," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs. "By expanding these existing facilities, we are providing Indigenous individuals in custody with greater opportunities for skills development, education and literacy."

To prepare for the project, Infrastructure Ontario is undertaking environmental, geotechnical, survey, archaeological and site servicing work within the secure perimeter at both facilities. 

Tendering and construction of the expansion projects in Thunder Bay and Kenora is expected to be completed by spring 2022. Meanwhile, the government is in the process of developing the request for proposal for the 325-bed Thunder Bay Correctional Complex project. That document is expected to be released early next year.