New York State Prison Redevelopment Commission
In 2022, Empire State Development (ESD) retained BJH to support facilitation of the Prison Redevelopment Commission, a panel of 18 stakeholders convened to develop recommendations for the redevelopment of twelve recently closed prisons across New York State. The Commission was co-chaired by Hope Knight, President of ESD, and Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, with other members including NYS agency commissioners, economic development experts, nonprofit / advocacy group leaders, architects, and real estate development professionals.
BJH and ESD completed a comprehensive review of the prison sites, including their physical characteristics, local market conditions, and redevelopment assets and limitations. This research was the foundation for four Commission meetings, which ultimately led to a set of near- and long-term recommendations for New York State to support redevelopment of the sites in a manner that strengthens communities affected by prison closures.
The Commission process, findings, and recommendations are summarized in Unlocking Opportunity: The Report of the New York State Prison Redevelopment Commission, released by Governor Hochul in December 2022.
