Chesterfield Township, New Jersey, October 21, 2025
State officials have officially begun construction on a new women’s correctional facility in Chesterfield Township, New Jersey. The modern center is designed to offer rehabilitative programs and enhance living conditions for female inmates, marking a significant step towards reforming the state’s correctional system. This facility aims to promote rehabilitation and support female offenders in their reintegration into society, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for these women.
Chesterfield Township, New Jersey
State Officials Break Ground on New Women’s Correctional Facility
State officials in Chesterfield Township, New Jersey, have begun construction of a new women’s correctional facility as of October 15, 2025. The facility is intended to replace the outdated Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women, which was closed in 2021 amid reports of misconduct and abuse.
Facility Details
The new facility will occupy a 33-acre site in Burlington County, positioned next to the former Albert C. Wagner Youth Correctional Facility, which was also closed in 2020. The design emphasizes a campus-style layout incorporating educational, vocational training, medical care, and recreational spaces. It will accommodate a total of 420 beds, creating a safer and more rehabilitative environment for incarcerated women.
Project Cost and Savings
The total estimated cost for the construction project is $310 million. The state anticipates substantial savings of over $160 million in deferred maintenance and capital costs that come with replacing the older facility.
Reform and Rehabilitation Focus
This new facility represents New Jersey’s ongoing commitment to reforming its criminal justice system, focusing on safety, dignity, and rehabilitation. It will provide enhanced vocational and educational programs, social services, as well as addiction treatment, all aimed at facilitating successful reintegration into society for incarcerated women.
Background
The decision to close the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility was made in 2021 following a string of troubling incidents, including a significant attack by guards in January 2021, which led to numerous legal proceedings. Over its operational history, the facility had also been associated with various allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct, culminating in a $20 million settlement with survivors in 2021.
Timeline
Construction is projected to conclude in 2028, with the initial phase of the facility set to open in 2027.
Location
The new correctional facility will be situated in Chesterfield Township, Burlington County, New Jersey.
Facility Features
The design includes integrated spaces for education, vocational training, medical care, and recreation, with the goal of fostering a safer and more rehabilitative environment for the women it will house.
Project Cost and Savings
As previously mentioned, the facility’s construction cost is estimated at $310 million, with expected savings exceeding $160 million on deferred maintenance and capital costs.
Reform and Rehabilitation Focus
The emphasis on reform and rehabilitation in the new design highlights New Jersey’s dedication to improving the conditions and support for incarcerated women.
Background
The closure of Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women was a direct response to ongoing issues within the facility, including misconduct that led to both public outcry and legal action.
Timeline
Completion of the construction is anticipated in 2028, with a phased opening beginning in 2027.
Location
The facility will reside in Chesterfield Township, Burlington County, New Jersey.
Facility Features
Key features of the facility will include a focus on educational and vocational training as well as health care and recreation for the women incarcerated there.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chesterfield Township, Burlington County, NJ |
| Size | 33-acre site |
| Design | Campus-style with integrated spaces for various services |
| Capacity | 420 beds |
| Cost | $310 million |
| Projected Savings | Over $160 million in deferred maintenance and capital costs |
| Completion | 2028, with a first phase opening in 2027 |
FAQ
What is the purpose of the new women’s correctional facility in Chesterfield Township?
The facility is designed to replace the outdated Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women and aims to provide a safer and more rehabilitative environment for incarcerated women.
What features will the new facility have?
The new facility will feature a campus-style design, including integrated spaces for education, vocational training, medical care, and recreation.
What is the estimated cost of the new facility?
The construction project is estimated to cost $310 million.
When is the expected completion date for the facility?
Construction is expected to be completed in 2028, with the first phase scheduled to open in 2027.
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