The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) has selected Johnson Controls to modernize its facilities across the state. The comprehensive overhaul is designed to enhance security, increase efficiency and create safer environments for staff and inmates.

The DCR manages 15 facilities, housing over 4,500 inmates and employing nearly 1,500 corrections officers. The existing security systems were outdated and lacked integration, presenting challenges in incident response and daily operations. After a competitive bidding process, Johnson Controls was chosen for its proven track record in similar corrections environments and its ability to provide a customized, integrated security solution.

"Through smart, efficient facility upgrades, the Division has not only created more modernized environments, but it has taken it a step further by using these upgrades for skills development initiatives — helping foster safer and healthier communities," said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. "We take great pride in aiding the WVDCR in cultivating improved environments that uphold its core mission." 

The Johnson Controls team will design and install an integrated security management system, uniting video surveillance, access control, alarms and visitor management under one platform. This will provide real-time visibility across all facilities, enabling swift incident response and informed decision-making.

"Through our partnership with Johnson Controls, we’ve been able to drastically improve functionality and efficiency, reduce costs and develop additional programs that meet the needs of the people within our facilities," said WVDCR Commissioner William Marshall.

The access control system will feature biometric identification and anti-passback protocols to strictly regulate movement within the facilities. This will prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of contraband entering the facilities.

"The new system will greatly reduce the manual monitoring that our staff currently conducts, allowing them to focus on rehabilitation programs and providing support to the inmate population," Coleman said. "By creating a safer environment, we can better deliver on our mission of reducing recidivism and preparing inmates for successful reintegration into their communities."

The project also includes comprehensive training for DCR staff to ensure a smooth transition and maximize the benefits of the new technology.

"Through our partnership with Johnson Controls, we’ve been able to drastically improve functionality and efficiency, reduce costs and develop additional programs that meet the needs of the people within our facilities," Marshall added. “Not only is the team at Johnson Controls helping us advance the overall safety and intelligence of our spaces, but also our big picture goals of holding offenders accountable while giving them the skills to eventually reintegrate into society.”

The project is expected to be completed within 24 months. Johnson Controls will provide ongoing maintenance and support to ensure the system remains optimized and secure.

With this transformative investment, the West Virginia DCR is at the forefront of corrections facility modernization, setting a new standard for safety, efficiency and rehabilitation-focused operations.