Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is MCI-Concord?
A: MCI-Concord is a medium-security correctional facility located in Concord operated by the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC). Opened in 1878, the facility houses a general population, operates a specialized unit for emerging adults, and has dedicated spaces for rehabilitative programming
Q: Why has the Department of Correction decided to cease operations at the facility?
A: As part of its commitment to provide the highest level of care, DOC continually explores opportunities to improve efficiency. Correctional and capital planning experts have concluded that:
- MCI-Concord’s rehabilitative mission and unique programming opportunities can function more efficiently at other DOC facilities.
- The 150-year-old facility would require significant investments – well beyond what makes sense in light of widespread capacity across the existing correctional system.
- Closing the facility will save nearly $16 million in operating costs and negate the need for $190 million in capital projects for decarbonization, cooling, and deferred maintenance.
- Consolidating resources across a smaller number of facilities provides new opportunities for investment in services, staffing, and programming.
Q: What does this decision mean for my loved one who lives at MCI-Concord?
A: In the coming months, every individual will complete the normal reclassification process for placement in a facility appropriate for their security, service, and programming needs. The Department takes great care with every placement to ensure it aligns with the goal of rehabilitation.
Q: How will this decision impact the state correctional system?
A: This decision, and the subsequent consolidation of resources across fewer locations, allows DOC to eliminate redundancies and deepen our investments in programming, staffing, and services. With the incarcerated population sitting at a 35-year low, this decision regarding MCI-Concord aligns with the Department’s previously announced decision to suspend housing operations at MCI-Cedar Junction and other facilities.
Q: When will the facility conclude operations?
A: We expect normal operations at MCI-Concord to conclude in the summer of 2024.
Q: What will happen to MCI-Concord’s property and physical buildings?
A: DOC will continue to maintain and inspect MCI-Concord regularly until future plans take shape.
Recognizing the value of the property to our partners in the local community, under this plan, DOC intends to dispose the property making it available for non-correctional purposes that would support the community’s needs.
Under Massachusetts law, closing a correctional facility and disposing the property in this way requires approval of the state legislature. The Healey-Driscoll Administration filed language to this effect in its FY25 budget proposal. If the legislature approves the proposal, DOC will review the final budget language and provide more specific information about the decommissioning process later this year.