Province issues RFQ as part of broader correctional expansion strategy
The Ontario government has taken a key step forward in its plan to expand correctional capacity, issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the construction of the Brockville Correctional Complex and the expansion of the St. Lawrence Valley Correctional and Treatment Centre.
Announced March 16, 2026, by the Premier’s Office, the project is expected to add 295 new beds in Eastern Ontario and forms part of a wider provincial initiative to add 1,436 correctional beds by 2032. The move reflects growing pressure on Ontario’s correctional system and aligns with the government’s broader justice and infrastructure agenda.
“Our government is cracking down on criminals by building jails and strengthening the bail system to keep violent offenders where they belong: behind bars,” said Premier Doug Ford. “The Brockville expansion is part of our plan to add over 1,400 beds in correctional facilities across the province and ensure lack of space is never an excuse to grant offenders early release.”
Infrastructure investment tied to justice system reforms
Expansion supports stricter bail policies and enforcement
The RFQ marks the beginning of a competitive procurement process, led in partnership with Infrastructure Ontario, to identify qualified construction contractors for the project. The planned development will span approximately 322,000 square feet and be delivered using a Design-Bid-Build model.
The announcement follows the introduction of the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2025, which aims to tighten bail conditions for individuals accused of serious offences. The province has also expanded specialized bail prosecution teams, integrating Crown prosecutors with local and provincial police services to enhance enforcement.
“When violent and repeat offenders break the law, Ontarians expect them to be held accountable,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “That’s why our government is strengthening bail laws and making generational investments to expand correctional capacity across Ontario, so that we always have room to keep offenders behind bars and off our streets.”
Regional and economic implications
Project expected to generate jobs and local economic activity
Beyond increasing correctional capacity, the Brockville-area expansion is expected to deliver economic benefits, including the creation of more than 400 jobs spanning correctional officers, healthcare professionals, and support staff.
Local officials emphasized both public safety and economic gains tied to the project.
“Expanding the capacity of the Brockville Correctional Complex and St. Lawrence Valley Correctional Treatment Centre makes our community safer by keeping dangerous offenders off the street. As work continues at the site, I’m pleased our government is issuing a Request for Qualifications. Selecting the team to build this facility and replace the 184-year-old Brockville jail is an important step forward as we work to deliver the modern complex that correctional staff deserve.”
- Steve Clark
MPP Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes
“We welcome the investment that the Ontario government is making in our community to build a modern correctional complex that will meet the needs of today and tomorrow. In addition to its core function, the facility will also have economic benefits beyond our own borders by providing good paying jobs that will pay into the regional economy. I am very pleased to see this long-dormant site being put to good use.”
- Brant Burrow
Mayor of Elizabethtown-Kitley
Part of multi-billion-dollar provincial infrastructure plan
Correctional builds form component of $223 billion capital strategy
The Brockville project is one of several correctional infrastructure investments underway across Ontario. The province has committed to adding capacity through multiple projects, including:
- 345 beds at the Thunder Bay Correctional Complex
- 320 beds at the Toronto South Detention Centre
- 150 beds through modular expansions in Niagara, Milton, and Sudbury
- 91 beds at the Quinte Detention Centre
- 235 beds at the Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex
Additional expansions are expected to be announced in the coming months, further increasing system capacity.
“Once complete, these expansion projects will increase the capacity of the Brockville Correctional Complex and St. Lawrence Valley Correctional and Treatment Centre, advancing our government’s plan to deliver a stronger correctional system with modern facilities to keep our communities safe. Under Premier Ford’s leadership, we are building and renewing Ontario’s critical infrastructure through a historic capital plan of more than $223 billion to support growing communities, keep workers on the job and protect Ontario.”
- Todd McCarthy
Acting Minister of Infrastructure
Procurement process signals next phase
Competitive bidding underway for construction partners
The RFQ process invites qualified contractors to submit their credentials, with shortlisted proponents expected to proceed to a later bidding stage. Interested firms can access project details through the provincial procurement platform.
Infrastructure Ontario, which is overseeing the process, framed the RFQ as a critical milestone in advancing the project.
“Launching the Request for Qualifications represents a significant milestone and signals the start of a competitive procurement process to bring a construction partner on board. We remain committed to working closely with our government partners and engaging with experienced proponents who can support the delivery of correctional facilities that meet the province’s long-term needs.”
- Angela Clayton
President and CEO, Infrastructure Ontario
Outlook
Capacity expansion aimed at long-term system resilience
As Ontario continues to invest in correctional infrastructure, the Brockville project highlights the province’s dual focus on public safety and economic development. By increasing capacity and modernizing facilities, the government aims to address systemic pressures while supporting regional growth.
With procurement now underway, the Brockville Correctional Complex project moves into a critical execution phase, positioning it as a key component of Ontario’s long-term correctional strategy.