Blair Co., Prison Board Approves Design Of New Facility

The Blair County Prison Board has approved design plans for a 150,000-square-foot, single-story facility in the Duncansville area, marking a significant step toward construction.  The new prison will feature 454 beds across nine housing units, including a specialized, segregated section designed to house up to 22 juveniles.  The new prison, to be located in Blair Township behind the former Inlow’s Drive-in, will feature enhanced facilities for medical and mental health care and rehabilitation.  The proposed design hinges on the county acquiring the property.  For months, county officials have been in communication with representatives of the current property owner, Pennsylvania Terminals Corporation.  County records indicate that the commissioners previously sent a letter of intent to the corporation offering $585,000 for two parcels totaling over 83 acres.  Finalizing the deal depends on the completion of multiple environmental assessments and structural testing.