Overview & Construction

      The prison SCI Phoenix, constructed in Montgomery PA, opened its doors on July 9th, 2018. The $400 million correctional institute is the largest prison on the East Coast, serving as a replacement for Graterford. Phoenix is built on the 164-acre grounds of the previous Graterford Prison, with construction plans finalized under Gov. Tom Corbett's administration in 2012. SCI Phoenix is a 3,830-bed facility, subdivided into "East" and "West" sections. Centralized service buildings house administration, medical, and food services. The maximum-security prison features correctional industries such as a shoe factory and garment factors on the East section. The initial prisoner transfer from Graterford to SCI Phoenix on July 18, 2018, included 2,637 inmates and 175 truckloads of property. Rushed prisoner transfers from Graterford were necessitated by safety concerns at the aging facility, highlighting the urgency of the move. Interviews with inmates, staff, and officials, coupled with document inquiries, uncovered a facility still grappling with construction issues when prisoners moved in. Reports of tens of thousands of dollars in damage to personal property during the transition underscored the hurried nature of the move and raised questions about the adequacy of planning. Even after the initial move, SCI Phoenix continued to face infrastructure challenges, with contractors returning to address unresolved issues. Disputes over payments further complicated matters, shedding light on the complexities inherent in managing such large-scale projects. The decision to expedite the opening was partly driven by safety concerns at the aging Graterford Prison, which was long overdue for replacement due to outdated design and hazardous materials. However, the hurried move to SCI Phoenix came with its own set of consequences, including significant financial costs and logistical hurdles. Despite these challenges, state officials remain optimistic about the potential long-term benefits of SCI Phoenix, including significant operating savings compared to Graterford. However, the realization of these benefits may take time, as the facility's occupancy rates fall below projections.

PHILOSOPHY

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections states that their mission is to "maximize inmate employment while providing valuable vocational training and work experience with emphasis on preparation for successful reentry."

PROGRAMS & COMMUNITY

At SCI Phoenix, a wide range of programs and services are offered to incarcerated individuals, aiming to provide education, vocational training, spiritual guidance, and support for personal growth and rehabilitation. The Villanova Program at SCI Phoenix stands out as one of the most impactful initiatives, offering eligible individuals the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, providing critical thinking skills and fostering moral reflection.

Located in separate Program Service Buildings on both the East and West sides of the facility, SCI Phoenix offers various educational and vocational classes, including barbering, custodial maintenance, carpentry, and computer skills. The school at SCI Phoenix provides adult basic education and vocational training, preparing individuals for employment upon reentry into society. Additionally, the institution boasts a law library and recreational library, allowing access to legal resources and reading materials.

In terms of spirituality and personal growth, SCI Phoenix offers a non-denominational chapel providing services for various religious denominations, including Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Islam, and more. The facility also hosts programs aimed at addressing alcohol and drug addiction, relapse prevention, and violence prevention, among others. AA and NA support meetings are available, along with sex offender treatment programs and victim awareness initiatives.

The institution emphasizes community building through initiatives like the Mural Arts Program, which encourages artistic expression and collaboration among inmates. The gym provides opportunities for physical exercise and recreation, contributing to overall well-being. The diverse range of programs at SCI Phoenix aims not only to equip individuals with practical skills but also to foster personal growth, rehabilitation, and positive community engagement.

SCI Phoenix's commitment to education, vocational training, spiritual guidance, and personal development reflects a broader goal of rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The programs offered contribute to low recidivism rates and help individuals become engaged democratic citizens, whether they remain incarcerated or eventually reenter society.