Thunder Bay Correctional Complex

The Story

The Thunder Bay Correctional Complex (TBCC) is a transformative infrastructure project which will consolidate existing correctional facilities into a single, purpose-built institution. Designed to support rehabilitation, safety, and wellness, the 345-bed facility introduces a new standard for correctional environments in Ontario.

TBCC features dedicated spaces for behavioral and mental health care, enhanced programming and healthcare services, and improved access to natural light and outdoor areas. These elements are thoughtfully integrated to foster a more humane and supportive setting for both inmates and staff.

The complex will connect to the adjacent Modular Built Facility (MBF) creating a unified correctional campus. Additional infrastructure includes new access roads from Highway 61, expanded parking for staff and visitors, a secure perimeter fence enclosing both facilities and Indigenous structures, and a new wastewater treatment plant. Together, these components ensure the facility is equipped for long-term operational efficiency and resilience.

Development and Equity

EllisDon Capital Inc. led the financial development of TBCC, managing the full scope of advisory services from initial market engagement to financial close. The financing structure combined short-term and long-term debt facilities with EllisDon’s equity investment, resulting in a balanced and cost-effective model.

Asset Management

EllisDon Capital’s Asset Management team governed the project through construction, identifying and mitigating risks and monitoring quality and schedule. Throughout its participation, it has managed financing obligations and relationships between integrated project participants in compliance with contract documents.

Facility Services

EllisDon Facilities Services Inc. (EDFS)will deliver facility management services at TBCC for 30 years, ensuring the facility remains safe, efficient, and sustainable. The team’s services include plant operations, utilities management, environmental programs, emergency response, landscaping, snow removal, waste and recycling, pest control, parking, help desk, and support for furniture and equipment. Additional services will be delivered as needed to support the evolving needs of the facility over time.

Furniture, Equipment & Design

The Furniture, Equipment & Design (FED) team is providing oversight of furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) throughout the project lifecycle. The team is managing the equipment database, leading procurement activities, and coordinating all aspects of equipment delivery, installation, and commissioning. From planning through final implementation, FED is ensuring that all FF&E components are efficiently managed and integrated to meet project timelines and operational readiness.

Design and Construction 

The TBCC project was shaped through a highly collaborative design process. EllisDon implemented an Integrated Design Team model, bringing together all disciplines for regular working sessions. This approach fostered open communication, accelerated decision-making, and allowed for continuous refinement of the design.

A key focus of this process was the meaningful inclusion of Indigenous perspectives. EllisDon engaged Two Row Architect as the Indigenous Design and Engagement Consultant to guide the integration of cultural and spiritual elements into the facility. The team continued consulting with Indigenous groups throughout the design and construction phases to ensure community feedback was thoughtfully incorporated into the final solution.

Sustainability

The Thunder Bay Correctional Complex is targeting LEED® Silver certification and was designed using an integrated approach to energy, water, indoor environmental quality, and resilience. Based on whole‑building energy simulation completed in accordance with LEED v4 requirements, the project is designed to achieve an estimated over 50% improvement in energy performance relative to baseline standards. Planned measures include fundamental and enhanced commissioning, building‑level energy and water metering, and on‑site renewable energy systems intended to offset a portion of operational energy demand.

Climate resilience measures were informed by a climate hazard and vulnerability assessment and include documented design responses to wildfire and winter storm risks, as well as extended onsite backup power capacity for critical systems.