The center column of the City of Millen’s elevated water tank for the Jenkins Correctional Center project was erected June 2. Contractor is Phoenix Fabricators. (Photos contributed) By Deborah Bennett Millen News Editor City and county work on the infrastructure for the Jenkins Correctional Center under construction by Corrections Corporation of America (CCA) on Pine Avenue is progressing well.

The City of Millen’s project consists of construction of a new elevated water tank on Pine Avenue, extending the city’s water main from the Industrial Park on Magnolia Street to the site of the new water tank, construction of a new water well on Pine Avenue, extending the city’s gas line from the Industrial Park to the correctional site, extending the sewer line from South Masonic Street to the site and connecting it to the line to the waste water treatment plant. Work has begun on several phases of the project.

The Jenkins County Commissioners have begun construction of an entrance and road to the site, Kent Farm Drive, off Highway 17.

Funding for the projects is coming from an Economic Improvement Grant, OneGeorgia Grant and several other sources.

CCA broke ground on the project in December 2010. Company officials have indicated it will bring approximately 200 new, full time careers for professionals in security, health services, education, management and other areas upon opening in March 2012. The $57 million prison will be located on 107 acres, contain 200,000 square feet and consist of five buildings.

The Department of Corrections is installing a 15” sewer main to the site. The photo at left was taken at the Steven Kent residence. The Kent/Wade families have donated the easement for the project to the City of Millen. Above, construction of the new Kent Farm Drive is shown at Highway 17. The contractor is Southeast Civil Inc. of Statesboro. Parker Engineering is the engineer.