On January 23, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) officially broke ground on a 64,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art training facility in Huntsville, Texas. This project marks a major milestone for the agency, demonstrating its dedication to workforce development and public safety.

The new facility, composed of three distinct buildings, will provide enhanced training for all TDCJ staff levels, including leadership development programs, the Parole Officers Training Academy, the Advanced Correctional Officer Training Academy, and crisis response teams.

Amanda Hernandez/Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Amanda Hernandez/Texas Department of Criminal Justice
loading...

A Commitment to Public Safety

“As an agency employing over 31,000 individuals, everything we do is related to public safety,” said TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier. “This facility will play a crucial role in facilitating training initiatives that will further help us fulfill our mission of providing public safety.”

Amanda Hernandez/Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Amanda Hernandez/Texas Department of Criminal Justice
loading...

Key Features of the Facility

The cutting-edge facility will serve as a hub for professional development, featuring:

The Training Center (43,000 sq ft):

  • Modern classrooms with flexible layouts.
  • Assembly space for large groups.
  • Administrative offices and conference rooms.
  • Recording studio and virtual reality training room.
  • Staff support areas, including breakrooms, exercise facilities, and lockers.
  • Mock cell demonstration area.
  • Dedicated physical training space with a catwalk.

Barracks (11,500 sq ft):

  • Comfortable dormitories with kitchenettes and 80 beds total.
  • Modern restrooms and showers.

Firing Range (9,500 sq ft):

  • 6-lane, 50-yard indoor firing range.
  • Spaces for weapon issue, control, and cleaning.
Amanda Hernandez/Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Amanda Hernandez/Texas Department of Criminal Justice
loading...

Groundbreaking Ceremony

The ceremony was attended by the Texas Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ), TDCJ leadership, local officials from Walker County and Huntsville, construction and engineering partners, and community members.

“On behalf of the Board, my hope for this facility is that it becomes a center of teamwork, excellence, and empowerment,” said TBCJ Chairman Eric Nichols. “We dedicate this facility to the women and men who protect Texas and commit to changing lives.”

Timeline and Impact

The facility is expected to be completed in the summer of 2026. Once operational, it will equip TDCJ employees with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their roles, further enhancing the agency’s mission of public safety.

For photos from the groundbreaking event, follow this link.

Where is the best place to get coffee in Lubbock?

Gallery Credit: Landon King

If you could rename Jones Stadium, what would be the new name?

Gallery Credit: Landon King

What is your favorite "hidden gem" in Lubbock that most people don't know about?

Gallery Credit: Landon King