(New York, Nov. 7, 2025) – The integrated design firm DLR Group with New Avalon Corrections Partners announced that NACP has reached financial close and finalized the project agreement with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for the province’s new adult correctional facility with DLR Group as design architect.

Delivered through a Public-Private Partnership, this milestone marks the official launch of the 30-year design, build, finance, and maintenance project agreement.

The $692.8 million facility will replace the aging Her Majesty’s Penitentiary in St. John’s, originally built in 1859, which currently serves as the province’s primary medium- and maximum-security institution. The new 395-bed facility will provide enhanced correctional services, including accommodations for female residents, a Health Services Unit, expanded resident programming, recreational spaces, and modern training and wellness facilities for staff.

Members of the NACP consortium include:

• Developer and Equity Provider: Plenary Americas and PCL Investments Inc.
• Design-Builder: PCL/Marco, A Joint Venture (PCL Constructors Canada Inc. and Marco Group)
• Service Provider: Johnson Controls Inc.
• Prime Architect: Parkin
• Local Associate Architect: John Hearn
• Design Architect: DLR Group

With success in delivering P3 projects and transformative design to correctional facilities, DLR Group’s Justice+Civic studio defines its role in the NACP by providing award winning and evidence-based design expertise to St. John’s and the wider Newfoundland and Labrador communities.

“The replacement facility is more than just a new building; it embodies a new paradigm of care and custody in a secure environment – one that respects the human condition and individual dignity,” said Andrew Cupples, FAIA, DBIA, senior principal and national Justice+Civic design leader at DLR Group. “This design prioritizes direct and interactive supervision and management while aiming to achieve better outcomes for inmates and staff, their families, and the wider community.”

Hafeez Habib, senior vice president – asset delivery at Plenary Americas, added “Plenary Americas and PCL Investments are pleased to partner with the members of the NACP team to deliver this important infrastructure investment for the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Reaching financial close marked a significant milestone and reflects the strong collaboration and commitment of all parties involved.”

Design and construction are anticipated to occur over 50 months, with completion estimated in fall 2029.