Summary: Much has changed at California ’s first prison since the original 68 prisoners were incarcerated there in 1852. Civil War-era buildings are now making way for design-build direction of Hensel Phelps Construction Co. Upon completion in 2010, the five-story building will provide improved medical, mental health and dental care to the more than 5,200 inmates currently housed at San Quentin.

In an effort that began in 2007, Bergelectric has worked closely with the design team – architect HOK and electrical engineer TMAD Taylor and Gaines – on developing this $109-million project. A unique element is the preservation of façade walls from the 1885 hospital building as well as the state’s oldest structure – known as the Dungeon – which was preserved intact as a part of the design of the CHSC.