The Ontario government has announced the start of construction of a $1.2-billion state-of-the-art Correctional Complex in Thunder Bay.

The new 345-bed, multi-purpose adult correctional facility will address capacity pressures, create additional space for programming, and expand supports for inmates with mental health issues. The new correctional complex was designed with input from frontline staff, local municipal partners, stakeholders and Indigenous leaders.

“Replacing out-of-date infrastructure that no longer meets current needs is an investment in corrections modernization and public safety,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “This new facility will provide staff with the tools, technology and healthy work environment needed to do their jobs safely and effectively while providing a high standard of care and supervision for those in custody.”

The complex will also feature an innovative design that includes an abundance of natural light and views of nature, along with fixtures and furnishings that will create a healthy environment for both staff and those in custody. There will also be dedicated Indigenous cultural spaces, both indoors and outdoors, such as a smudging space, sweat lodge and teaching lodge. Some of the outdoor features will include a communal gathering space, greenhouse, and secure yard.

Construction is expected to be completed in fall 2026. EllisDon Infrastructure Justice is performing the work under a design, build, finance and maintain arrangement.

“We are very excited to be part of a project team to deliver this terrific facility that will serve a great purpose to the community of Thunder Bay," said Wayne Ferguson, Senior Vice President and Area Manager of EllisDon Infrastructure Justice.

This project is one of a series of corrections infrastructure builds in the North.

Last month saw the completion of expansion projects at the Thunder Bay Correctional Centre and Kenora Jail to help address overcrowding while the government builds the new Thunder Bay Correctional Complex.

Those were designed and built by Bird Construction Inc. and delivered using Infrastructure Ontario’s rapid delivery approach.

“Bird is pleased to have safely delivered the rapid build expansions at Kenora Jail and Thunder Bay Correctional Centre,” said Bird President and CEO Teri McKibbon. “The successful completion was made possible through the strong collaboration and engagement with stakeholders, including Indigenous communities, trade partners, and our clients. The projects leveraged Bird’s integrated conventional site construction and innovative modular construction solutions with Stack Modular and demonstrated the value and benefits of accelerated builds for delivery of important infrastructure to communities.”

The Thunder Bay Jail and Correctional Centre are among the oldest provincially run adult correctional facilities in Ontario. The Thunder Bay Jail opened in 1928. The Thunder Bay Correctional Centre opened in 1965; however, the original building structure which operated as a prison farm opened in 1911.