Construction on a new Illinois Youth Center in Lincoln for youth in the custody of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice was announced by Governor J.B. Pritzker (IDJJ). The undertaking will adhere to the new residential, community-integrated, restorative justice model developed by IDJJ.
The funding is made possible through the Rebuild Illinois Capital program. It is a nonpartisan initiative that is the largest capital plan in State history. The previous Lincoln Development Center will become the new Illinois Youth Center, which will be located in Lincoln (LDC).
Two 4,300-square-foot cottages will be renovated as part of the funding, along with cottages for administration and programming. In addition, a 27,000-square-foot multifunctional structure that is now being built will offer educational, recreational, and dietary services.
Additional scope of the project
The changes to the building’s mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems as well as the walkways and roads are all part of the restorations. A new sports field, outdoor basketball courts, and fencing are all part of the project’s scope. On-site installation of new security electronic systems, such as closed-circuit television cameras, is planned.
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The renovations will significantly enhance the property’s existing state, which has been unoccupied since 2002, at the Lincoln Developmental Center. The Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB) will supervise the Illinois Youth Center at Lincoln design and its construction. The construction should be finished by the summer of 2024.
Commentary on the Illinois Youth Center in Lincoln
“Thanks to their assistance in restoring the Lincoln Campus, Governor Pritzker, Lt. Governor Stratton, and Rebuild Illinois have helped IDJJ with its 21st-century transformation. In order to assist trauma recovery, restorative justice, and good adolescent development, this campus will be the first Illinois Youth Center created in conjunction with IDJJ’s own youth and staff.
More significantly, the Lincoln Campus will make sure that Central Illinois’ most at-risk youth receive the care and support they require. All this while staying close to their families and communities.” Director of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice Heidi Mueller stated.
