Swanson Center to receive new $22 million facility

MONROE, La. (AP) - Construction on a new $22 million facility for the Swanson Center for Youth is expected to begin in 2016.

The facility will be much smaller than the center’s current home, which has more than 50 buildings.

State Sen. Francis Thompson tells The News-Star (https://tnsne.ws/1Fpr7sm) the smaller, school-style facilities have proved effective in other states.

Swanson provides treatment, educational and vocational programs for troubled youth.

Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice Deputy Secretary Mary Livers said the new facility will feature eight to 10 buildings and 72 beds.

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Information from: The News-Star, https://www.thenewsstar.com