Total capacity once expansion is complete	2,400
Existing beds	981
New beds	1,444
Estimated cost/construction	$144 million
Jobs created	250
Construction start date	Spring 2008
Estimated completion	Spring 2011

• By utilizing existing administrative staff, operational costs at the facility will be significantly lower than if the department had built a standalone facility.
  
• Upgrades will be made to regional water and electrical systems which will benefit not only the prison but also the local community.
  
  
• Additional jobs created by the expansion will help put residents of Bledsoe County to work.  The current unemployment rate in that county hovers at 10%.
  
• Experienced staff at Bledsoe County will ensure a stable transition and dependable workforce.
  
• Cost of the expansion is far less than the other two building projects being considered.

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