San Quentin Rehabilitation Center Construction

CDCR is launching a large-scale effort to improve the lives of employees and incarcerated people and create a more effective justice system that builds safer communities. The new education and vocational center project will change the feel of the institution and offer opportunities that will positively impact the lives of everyone who lives and works at the institution. 

The mission of San Quentin Rehabilitation Center aims to facilitate rehabilitation and successful reentry to benefit public safety. It is also the goal of the California Model, which aims to build safer communities through rehabilitation, education, restorative justice, and reentry. 

More than 50 meetings were conducted to gather stakeholder input including from incarcerated people and SQRC staff.  The consensus was a priority on flexible space for education programs, a focus on technology needs, staff space, a place for reentry programming and resources such as a library, café and store. 

The buildings will have options including large classrooms, medium classrooms, small meeting spaces, library, reentry meeting space, various studios, work areas, cafe, and a multipurpose room.  

Operational hours and who have access will be determined when the construction is near completion and prior to activation of the project. 

The design process is on-going and is anticipated to be approved by the authorities having jurisdiction in spring of 2025. 

The design was inspired by a place where learning happens beyond classroom boundaries, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. The local climate and respect for historical and social heritage of San Quentin were also considered. The design fosters community and celebrates diversity and inclusivity. Moreover, it supports and elevates learning and development at the essence of rehabilitation. 

The buildings are being constructed in accordance with green-build, high-performance design principles. The design team is accounting for environmental impacts in their design and looks to create a building which people would feel comfortable, both physically and mentally.  

The project is using cutting-edge technology to assist with every aspect of the design. A 3D model is used to assist preconstruction coordination The designers used technology to ensure that the building accounts for year-round solar effects, wind comfort and views.  

In the northeast corner of the walled perimeter at the current location of Building 38 (warehouse) which will be demolished. 

CDCR and the construction team is dedicated to ensuring the safety of surrounding officers and the incarcerated population while adhering to local and state regulations.  We are actively collaborating with Cal-Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Water Quality Control Board, and Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to ensure we maintain compliance.  A site fence to delineate construction areas and prevent unauthorized access will be installed.  Prior to demolition, all potentially harmful materials will be removed from the site. Additionally, we have developed a comprehensive site-specific safety plan, emphasizing proactive measures to mitigate risks and ensure the well-being of all involved in the project. 

The project funding was appropriated in the Budget Act of 2023 utilizing lease revenue bonds. 

The project will prioritize public health by implementing stringent safety measures and adhering to local regulations. This includes measures such as controlling dust and noise pollution, ensuring proper disposal of hazardous materials, maintaining clean and sanitary working conditions, and minimizing disruption to surrounding communities. Additionally, the project will involve regular monitoring and compliance with environmental standards to safeguard public health throughout its duration.  

The final list of programs has not been determined and will be finalized prior to the completion of construction in early 2026.  

Anticipated completion is at the beginning of 2026.  

No.

The incarcerated population access will be determined when the project is near completion and prior to activation of the project.