This project involved the construction of a 24,050-square-foot kitchen, laundry, and bakery addition at the Clarinda Correctional Facility, delivered under a Construction Management as Agent delivery method for the State of Iowa Department of Administrative Services and the Department of Corrections. The addition was designed to enhance operational efficiency, durability, and security within an active correctional environment.
The building was constructed on a shallow foundation system with spread footings supporting precast exterior wall panels. The roof system consists of structural steel beams with steel joists and metal decking, finished with a 60-mil TPO roof membrane to provide long-term weather resistance and reduced maintenance.
Interior construction includes a combination of CMU masonry walls and metal stud framing with gypsum board finishes. Interior wall surfaces were coated with a high-performance epoxy paint specifically selected for durability and ease of maintenance in a correctional and food-service environment. Flooring systems were tailored to programmatic use, with sealed concrete in the laundry areas and quarry tile with epoxy grout throughout the main kitchen and bakery spaces to support sanitation and heavy-use demands.
The facility is equipped with large commercial-grade cooler and freezer systems to support daily kitchen operations. All kitchen and bakery equipment is commercial-grade and high-capacity, designed to meet the facility’s operational volume and performance requirements. The final project scope included the addition of a fully equipped commercial bakery, enhancing the facility’s ability to meet daily production needs. High-capacity laundry equipment with increased load ratings was also installed to accommodate the facility’s daily washing and drying demands.
The project was constructed within the secure perimeter of a fully operational correctional facility, requiring strict adherence to Department of Corrections safety, security, and life-safety protocols for all personnel and visitors. Maintaining uninterrupted facility operations while ensuring the safety of inmates, staff, and construction workers presented significant logistical and security challenges.
To address these constraints, the project team established a fully enclosed, dedicated construction zone within the existing perimeter by installing temporary pod fencing that met all DOC life-safety and security requirements. The secured work area was integrated with high-security fencing and supported by dedicated corrections staff providing on-site guard operations during construction hours. This approach allowed construction activities to proceed safely and efficiently while maintaining the integrity and security of the active facility.