POCATELLO, ID — The Idaho Department of Correction (IDOC) has broken ground on a new Community Reentry Center (CRC) in Pocatello, expanding its network of facilities designed to help incarcerated individuals transition successfully back into society.

The project, funded by the Idaho Legislature in 2022, is part of Governor Brad Little’s public safety efforts to reduce recidivism and strengthen rehabilitation programs statewide. Once completed, the Pocatello CRC will house up to 100 men classified as minimum custody, offering structured support, job readiness training, and community reintegration services.

Local leaders attended the groundbreaking, including Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad, Police Chief Roger Schei, Bannock County Commissioners Jeff Bullock and Terrel Hough, and Chamber of Commerce Director Matt Hunter. State Representatives Dustin Manwaring, Tanya Burgoyne, James Ruchti, and Rick Cheatum also joined IDOC leaders, underscoring the collaboration between state and local agencies.

“CRCs offer a structured, step-down environment that helps residents learn critical life skills, strengthen family relationships, and secure employment prior to release,” said IDOC Director Bree Derrick.

Eligibility for CRC placement requires individuals to be classified as minimum custody, have no pending felony charges, and be within 18 months of release. Placement decisions also factor in institutional behavior, medical needs, and community ties.

According to IDOC, CRCs provide key benefits such as reduced taxpayer costs, expanded employment opportunities, access to education and training programs, increased family contact, and the ability for residents to contribute positively through community service.

Construction of the Pocatello CRC is underway and the facility is expected to begin operations in late spring 2026.