Fact Check: Detention center could be built in just 30 to 60 days!

Fact Check: "Detention center could be built in just 30 to 60 days!"

What We Know

The claim that a detention center could be built in just 30 to 60 days is a contentious one. According to the Island County Jail Feasibility Study, the construction of a detention facility typically involves extensive planning, design, and regulatory approval processes that can extend well beyond two months. The study emphasizes the importance of analyzing projected jail population growth over a 20-year period to inform the sizing and planning of any recommended facilities, which suggests that quick construction might not be feasible.

In contrast, some sources indicate that under specific circumstances, expedited construction methods could potentially allow for rapid deployment of certain facilities. For instance, the Cochise County Jail Planning Timeline mentions that preliminary design concepts can be developed quickly, but actual construction timelines are often longer due to the need for compliance with building codes and regulations.

Furthermore, the Federal Bureau of Prisons outlines procedures that include the design-build process, which can streamline construction timelines. However, even with these expedited methods, the complexity of building a detention facility typically requires more than just 30 to 60 days.

Analysis

The assertion that a detention center could be constructed in 30 to 60 days lacks substantial support from credible sources. The Island County Jail Feasibility Study and other feasibility studies emphasize that the planning and construction of detention facilities are complex processes that require careful consideration of various factors, including population projections, funding, and regulatory compliance.

While expedited construction methods exist, such as the design-build approach mentioned in the Federal Bureau of Prisons guidelines, these methods still require significant time for planning and execution. The Cochise County Jail example illustrates that while initial design stages can be quick, the overall timeline for construction is typically much longer due to necessary approvals and compliance with safety standards.

Additionally, the Guidelines for Planning a Detention Facility highlight a six-step planning process that local officials must follow, further indicating that rapid construction is not standard practice. These steps include forming an advisory committee, studying detention needs, and coordinating the project, all of which take time.

Conclusion

The claim that a detention center could be built in just 30 to 60 days is Partially True. While there are instances where expedited construction methods could theoretically shorten timelines, the reality is that the planning, regulatory approvals, and construction processes involved in building a detention center typically require much more time. Therefore, while rapid construction might be possible under certain conditions, it is not the norm and is unlikely to be achieved within the stated timeframe.

Sources

1. Island County Jail Feasibility Study
2. FEASIBILITY STUDY SUMMARY
3. PDF Design and Construction Procedures - Federal Bureau of Prisons
4. Cochise County Jail - Planning & Construction Timeline
5. ZB02* - Local Jails and Detention Centers
6. Newberry County
7. Guidelines for Planning a Detention Facility | Office of Justice Programs
8. RFQ 211782– ATTACHMENT 3 CONSTRUCTION OF THE ...