Hausmann is currently constructing the new Arbor Correctional Center for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS), a 1,512-bed, multi-custody facility located north of Interstate 80 and east of 70th Street in northeast Lincoln. The project will replace the existing Nebraska State Penitentiary—NDCS’s oldest facility, with portions of the campus dating back to 1869—and represents a significant investment in the future of corrections in Nebraska.
Designed to meet modern operational demands, the new facility addresses longstanding challenges tied to the age, configuration, and inefficiencies of the current campus. The project reflects a shift toward contemporary correctional environments that prioritize safety, flexibility, and long-term performance.
The campus includes a maximum/medium custody compound alongside a separate minimum custody compound, creating clear operational distinctions while maintaining overall site cohesion. Housing units are designed with integrated rehabilitative programming spaces, providing direct access to education, treatment, and support services. Vocational training areas are distributed throughout the facility, reinforcing skill-building opportunities as part of daily routines.
The design incorporates current best practices in correctional architecture, including increased access to natural light and carefully considered acoustics to maintain appropriate sound levels. These elements create more normalized environments that support the mental and physical wellbeing of both the population and staff, aligning with NDCS’s rehabilitative mission.
Rendering provided by DLR Group