Erie County Correctional Facility

The Erie County Correctional Facility in Alden is a medium security facility which presently can hold 826 inmates of various classifications. By the end of 1999 a 244 bed extension will be completed bring the capacity up to 1070 inmates, contingent on the continuation of variances from the NYS Commission of Correction. The facility is a combination of "New Generation Jail" pods and open bay construction. This style facility has been found to be safer for both staff and inmates.

The facility maintains several programs to enhance rehabilitation. There is a full time school program maintained by the Alden School district which assists inmates in attaining an education which will assist them after release.

The correctional facility also serves as a "safety valve" for the County Holding Center, when that facility reaches capacity. The facility also holds parole violators for the State of New York prior to final hearings for re-incarceration in State facilities.

FAST FACT: The facility has a "Horticulture Program" which is the crown jewel of the various programs. Inmates grow plants from seed which are then used for beautification projects throughout the county. This program also produces over 6000 bales of hay for the Buffalo/Erie County Zoo, which is used as food and bedding for animals. Hay is also used for various park projects and fire training.