Brooklyn Detention Center Readies For Re-Opening

By: Courtney Gross

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Next week, the city will reopen the Brooklyn Detention Complex, which has been shuttered for more than eight years, and officials are offering residents a glimpse this weekend. NY1’s Courtney Gross filed the following report.

The city is locking up a new spot for inmates.

After eight and a half years, the Brooklyn Detention Complex in Boerum Hill is set to reopen.

"As a good neighbor to the community, we're looking to work collectively with them," said Warden Artemio Colon.

It was lights out in 2003 when budget constraints forced the city to shutter the facility, but since the city's other jails on Rikers Island are deteriorating, officials have decided to pick up intake in Brooklyn.

Officials at the Department of Correction say inmates will start moving into the facility next week. Eventually, 759 of them will call it home.

In its 48-square-foot cells, toiletries and sinks are included.

Outside of the jail walls, there are mixed reactions to the reopening.

"People in the neighborhood have always known it was there and there was a possibility that it would reopen," said one resident.

"The guys are locked down and everything is safe for everyone in the neighborhood. You have to trust at some point, right?" said another.

"They've assured me that they will be good neighbors, and I take them at their word, but we have to work on it," said City Councilman Stephen Levin.

The complex's warden said security is a major priority.

"As the commanding officer of this facility, my primary concern is the safety and security of all uniformed staff, all civilians and inmates, as well," said Warden Walter Nin.

The jail has a fresh coat of paint, recreation rooms and visitor space. There are basketball courts on the building's roof.

"Keep them busy. I am a firm believer, keep the inmate busy, keep them active and you'll have less security issues," said Nin.

The city spent $5.3 million on renovations, fixing plumbing, installing televisions and making roof repairs.

Most of the inmates will be awaiting trial in Brooklyn or Staten Island. They will be transported from court via an underground passageway.

On average, each man will only stay here about 57 days, hopefully never to return.

An open house for residents is being held this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.