NA Prison undergoes $1.7 billion upgrade

The New Amsterdam Prison Complex is undergoing a massive $1.7 billion upgrade to enhance its facilities and on Friday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Andre Ally visited the site to ensure the infrastructure projects are being efficiently carried out.

A statement from the ministry noted that Ally assessed the development and the status of various construction lots.

Notable advancements were observed at Lots 2, 4, and 5, where significant work has commenced. At Lot 2, there will be a male and female living quarters. The existing structures were demolished and site preparation, which was allocated a $114 million budget, is at 15 per cent completion.

Then at Lot 4, the Officer’s Sports Club is being reconstructed. The demolition of the segment has reached 10 percent completion with a budget allocation of over $50 million.

At Lot 5, a reception building is being constructed, with a budget of over $413 million.

The ministry noted that there are forthcoming phases such as Lot 1, which involves the construction of a Senior Officers’ Living Quarters.

Lots 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 are also in the mobilization stage, reflecting the forthcoming thrust in the project’s execution.

At Lot 3, a kitchen and a storage bond will be built, while at Lots 6, 7, 8, and 9 there will be an infirmary annex, an overhead storage tank, a treatment plant, upgraded solitary and cell blocks, and a training facility for inmates in Lot 10.

The Permanent Secretary said these are essential infrastructural enhancements. He added that the prison’s focus is not only on rehabilitation but also on the facilities’ functionality for the betterment of both staff and inmates.