Wisconsin Building Commission Approves $15M Prison System Revamp Plans

The Wisconsin State Building Commission unanimously approved the release of $15 million to initiate preliminary planning and design for an extensive overhaul of the state's prison system, as requested by Governor Tony Evers. The plan includes the potential closure of the aging Green Bay Correctional Institution (GBCI) and upgrades to infrastructure at five other facilities, including the troubled Waupun Correctional Institution, which has been the focus of public concern due to poor living conditions and related deaths. Despite some Republican lawmakers expressing dissatisfaction with not being involved in the planning process, there is bipartisan support for closing GBCI, with local Republicans also backing the move. The funding will cover the development of a formal construction and transition plan rather than immediate construction, aiming to address overcrowding and infrastructure issues within the prison system. Governor Evers emphasized that the plan is meant to be transparent and responsibly executed to reassure the public and affected communities. Lawmakers continue discussions on how and when to proceed with the closure and upgrades, highlighting ongoing collaboration across party lines.