The TBCC involves replacement of aging jail and correctional facilities with a new 345-bed, multipurpose complex. Both the existing Thunder Bay Jail and Thunder Bay Correctional Facility are among the oldest provincially-run adult correctional facilities, built in 1928 and 1965 respectively.

The new TBCC updates automation and technology to address issues of health, safety and security, and introduces efficiencies around design, technology, and the use of space. HH Angus is providing mechanical consulting engineering and vertical transportation consulting to the EllisDon Infrastructure Justice design team.

The TBCC is targeting LEED Silver certification and LEED Resilient Design pilot credits through the United States Green Building Council. The design focuses on energy efficiency, healthy indoor environments and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The complex will also include views of nature, allow ample natural light and feature dedicated Indigenous cultural spaces, such as smudging space and sweat and teaching lodges.

The new facility is the first of its kind for an Ontario correctional facility, incorporating design features that promote rehabilitation of inmates. It will also improve access to programming, living conditions and education, while updating automation and technology.

The TBCC project has presented several challenges to our design team, including a compressed schedule and the involvement of numerous stakeholders. It has also been interesting on a technical level: mechanically, the various modes of operation and interconnection of systems are quite complex, necessitating a high degree of flexibility within the capacity of the mechanical equipment. The building construction featured a precast exterior with block walls, requiring very close coordination with trades to align openings and allow access for equipment.

Due to the secure nature of the facility, the mechanical system was integrated seamlessly into the architectural features, all accessible equipment is provided in a secure location, and all building systems interact
with the BAS.

The facility will include a connection to an existing 50-inmate facility — the Thunder Bay Modular Built Facility — located southeast of the TBCC and currently under construction. The project also involves the design and construction of a 4,000 ft2 wastewater treatment facility to allow for a fully self-sufficient and self-contained facility.