Central ND News

Gov. Kelly Armstrong and Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden participated with staff and residents from the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCR) in a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Heart River Correctional Center in Mandan. The facility, focused on rehabilitation and safety for women, is planned to open in the fall of 2027.

This 191,500-square-foot facility will accommodate 304 beds, significantly increasing the capacity from the Dakota Women’s Correctional Rehab Center in New England. Gov. Armstrong stated, “This day is historic for North Dakota because for the first time in our state’s 135-year history, we’re breaking ground on a correctional facility designed specifically for women.”

DOCR Director Colby Braun and HRCC Warden Connie Hackman Rivinius spoke about HRCC's vision and its transformative potential for residents. The center aims to enhance family ties and provide comprehensive programs. Braun mentioned the focus on reentry from day one, stating, “We are not simply building a prison; we are creating a place of opportunity, responsibility and hope.”

Hackman Rivinius commented on HRCC's expanded capabilities in personal development, emphasizing a trauma and gender-responsive environment. “The goal is to create a safe and healthy, relationship-based environment with a high level of care and skill-building programming,” she added.

Armstrong expressed gratitude to state legislators for the $131.2 million funding approved in 2023 and a proposed additional $35.6 million for a total project budget of $166.8 million. Design for the facility is being handled by JLG Architects in collaboration with JB Marie and DLR Group.