Representative Eric Swafford (R-Pikeville) announced recently that the Southeastern Tennessee Correctional Facility in Bledsoe County will be expanded creating jobs and relieving prison overcrowding in the state.
“This expansion project is going to boost the local economy by providing jobs for the hard working folks in this district, while also relieving some overcrowding in Tennessee’s Correctional facilities,” said Representative Swafford.
The total capacity once the expansion is complete will be 2,400 beds. There will be 981 existing beds, and 1,444 new beds. The estimated cost $144 million, and will create roughly 250 jobs.
“The 250 jobs that will be created by this project will put Bledsoe Countians back to work,” said Rep. Swafford. “I’m looking forward to providing good jobs in our county for hard working individuals.”
Because the state will be utilizing existing administrative staff, operational costs will be significantly lower. Upgrades will be made to the regional water and electrical systems that will benefit not only the prison, but also the entire community.
Representative Eric Swafford is serving his third term in the legislature. He represents Cumberland and Bledsoe counties, and resides in Pikeville with his wife and son.
