New Jersey, October 19, 2025
Advocacy groups are urging for the demolition of New Jersey’s oldest state prison buildings due to significant safety concerns and outdated infrastructure. They argue that the replacement of these facilities is essential to improve conditions for both inmates and staff, and this initiative is part of a larger conversation around prison reform and modernization efforts happening throughout the state.
Trenton, New Jersey
Watchdogs Urge Demolition of Trenton’s Oldest State Prison Buildings Due to Safety Concerns
Advocacy groups are calling for the demolition of the New Jersey State Prison’s oldest sections in Trenton, citing significant safety issues and outdated infrastructure. Replacing these facilities is seen as essential for improving conditions for both inmates and staff.
Current Conditions at the New Jersey State Prison
The New Jersey State Prison in Trenton, established in 1836, is recognized as America’s oldest operating prison. The facility comprises three compounds, with the West Compound housing seven units built between 1836 and 1905. These units feature cells measuring just four by seven feet, originally designed for solitary confinement. Over 600 individuals reside in this compound, with more than a third serving life sentences. The conditions are described as antiquated and inhumane, with inadequate space, lack of privacy, and insufficient recreational areas. The facility’s infrastructure is deteriorating, leading to concerns about the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff.
Historical Context and Previous Calls for Action
Over the past century, there have been multiple calls to replace the prison’s oldest sections. In 1918, corrections officials and advocates urged lawmakers to demolish and rebuild the facility, describing it as outdated and unsuitable for contemporary needs. Despite these appeals, no significant action was taken. In 1952, following prison riots, a committee recommended replacing the prison rather than implementing temporary measures. In 2011, the Department of Corrections sought state funds to demolish and rebuild the facility, citing class-action litigation over confinement conditions and warning that inaction would compromise security and force officials to maintain the old systems at extremely high costs.
Recent Developments and Recommendations
In a recent report, the state corrections ombudsperson’s office has joined the call for the demolition and reconstruction of the West Compound. The report highlights the immense effort and cost required to maintain the facility over the last century, amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars in taxpayer money. The ombudsperson recommends that lawmakers and department officials prioritize and fund the demolition and reconstruction of the West Compound. Past estimates for such work have ranged from $200 million to $400 million. In the absence of this, officials should consider relocating residents to safer, more modern housing units. Additionally, the report suggests adopting standards for the size of single- and double-occupancy cells to ensure humane conditions.
Broader Implications for Prison Reform in New Jersey
The push to demolish and rebuild the New Jersey State Prison’s oldest sections aligns with broader discussions on prison reform and modernization efforts statewide. Advocates argue that replacing outdated facilities is crucial for improving conditions for inmates and staff, enhancing safety, and addressing longstanding issues related to overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure. The situation in Trenton serves as a focal point for these ongoing conversations about the future of correctional facilities in New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the New Jersey State Prison in Trenton?
The New Jersey State Prison in Trenton, established in 1836, is recognized as America’s oldest operating prison. It comprises three compounds, with the West Compound housing seven units built between 1836 and 1905.
What are the conditions in the West Compound?
The West Compound features cells measuring just four by seven feet, originally designed for solitary confinement. Over 600 individuals reside in this compound, with more than a third serving life sentences. The conditions are described as antiquated and inhumane, with inadequate space, lack of privacy, and insufficient recreational areas.
What has been the response to these conditions?
Advocacy groups and the state corrections ombudsperson’s office have called for the demolition and reconstruction of the West Compound. The ombudsperson recommends that lawmakers and department officials prioritize and fund the demolition and reconstruction of the West Compound, with past estimates for such work ranging from $200 million to $400 million.
How does this relate to broader prison reform efforts in New Jersey?
The push to demolish and rebuild the New Jersey State Prison’s oldest sections aligns with broader discussions on prison reform and modernization efforts statewide. Advocates argue that replacing outdated facilities is crucial for improving conditions for inmates and staff, enhancing safety, and addressing longstanding issues related to overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure.
Key Features of the New Jersey State Prison in Trenton
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Establishment | Established in 1836, recognized as America’s oldest operating prison. |
| West Compound | Comprises seven units built between 1836 and 1905, housing over 600 individuals. |
| Cell Size | Cells measure four by seven feet, originally designed for solitary confinement. |
| Inmate Population | Over 600 individuals reside in the West Compound, with more than a third serving life sentences. |
| Maintenance Costs | Maintaining the facility over the last century has cost New Jersey taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. |
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Author: NEW JERSEY STAFF WRITER
The NEW JERSEY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionnjnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Jersey and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the New Jersey Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of New Jersey and the New Jersey Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Gibbons P.C. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
