Project Overview

SCI Phoenix East and West is a replacement project for one of the largest state correctional facilities. The expansion is the keystone to a major statewide rehabilitation and enlargement to handle a growing incarceration trend in Pennsylvania. Over $40 million in systems were specified by PSE for the proposed $431 million site allocation.

Professional System Engineering, LLC served as the physical security, perimeter security, security electronics, detention hardware, technology, life safety, and communications consultant for the preparation of Bridging Documents through 2nd re-bid for the new $350 million PA DGS SCI Phoenix. The facility was constructed in a design/build effort at the site of the existing SCI Graterford with a proposed capacity of 3,830-bed facility. There is a 1,915-bed, maximum-security prison; and a 1,915-bed, medium-security prison. The two male correctional facilities featuring one shared Administration/Centralized Service Building – Subdivides into two separate sections of the facility – “East” and “West” and share a secure perimeter and support services building, but have their own master control rooms and integrated security systems. There is also a new Female Transitional Unit which includes: An independently fenced, full-service building containing 192 dormitory-style beds. SCI Phoenix is a replacement project for one of the largest state correctional facilities.

PSE also provided consulting services for the DGS DOC during the design-build phase to provide a performance specification for the video surveillance design to an IP-based system with redundant networking and infrastructure.

PSE assisted DOC and facility maintenance during the construction phase to provide consulting services for assessment and troubleshooting. This allowed for the systems startup and shakedown to be successfully completed for occupation of the facility.

Services Provided

Physical Security

  • Security zoning
  • Impact/attack ratings
  • Hardening analysis
  • Control center design

Security Electronics

  • PLC control systems
  • Touchscreen control
  • Digital video
  • Intercom/paging
  • Wireless duress
  • Watch tour

Perimeter Security

  • Security fencing
  • Multiple detection systems
  • Vehicle sallyport
  • Site digital video
  • Security lighting/controls

Detention Hardware

  • Pneumatic locking system
  • Swing door detention locks
  • Sliding door detention locks
  • Gate locks

Communications

  • Data communications
  • Voice communications
  • Satellite TV distribution
  • Inmate phone infrastructure
  • Video conferencing

Life Safety

  • Shelter-in-place scenarios
  • IBC conditional use group IV
  • NFPA life safety I-3 analysis
  • Integration requirements