Health Correctional Facility was built in response to a 1989 Department of Justice order that the Kansas Department of Corrections address the long term needs of mentally ill inmates.

The new unit is used as a transitional center for those inmates who are not able to function in the general population of a traditional correctional facility, but are not in need of hospitalization for mental health reasons.

Professional Engineering Consultants, P.A. provided engineering design services for the Mechanical, Electrical, Structural and Security Systems of the maximum security facility.

The 106,000 square foot facility, completed in 1992, consists of a housing building, administration building, commons building, and energy center, as well as smaller support buildings. The housing units are designed to house 150 inmates, with design provisions made for a future expansion to 300 beds. Inmates spend most of their time, however, in the commons building, participating in educational and recreational activities.

Although intended to be unobtrusive, security considerations were not compromised in the design of this facility. Three guard towers, electronically monitored fences, and perimeter lighting ensure that inmates will remain inside the grounds. The cells themselves required special design elements to prevent inmates from harming themselves or others. PEC engineers employed recessed lighting fixtures, safe electrical outlets, wall mounted cigarette lighters, and other features which minimize the potential for injury.

Medical services provided at the facility include psychiatric evaluation and care, routine and emergency medical care, and dental care. The medical area includes a pharmacy, a fully equipped emergency room, dental chairs, and a drug and alcohol treatment center.
The facility also includes:
• full service kitchen
• laundry facilities
• classrooms with computer equipment
• recreation and activity rooms
• library
• outdoor recreational facilities

PEC engineers designed the housing units to be energy efficient, with few windows but skylights to ensure adequate lighting.

PEC also designed fire detection and protection systems, on- and off-site utilities, electrical and lighting systems, and a HVAC system which meets hospital standards for ventilation and clean air.

The Larned State Mental Health Correctional Facility, the first of its kind in Kansas, now provides safe and effective care for inmates previously neglected by the system. The $13,000,000 facility engineered by PEC is a landmark in law-enforcement and health care in Kansas.

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