Senator McGuire and Rep. John Connor are hosting a book drive during starting May 15 at their joint office. All donated books will benefit Illinois correctional center libraries. See more details below!

JOLIET — State Senator Pat McGuire spoke before those gathered at a long-awaited groundbreaking of the new In-Patient Treatment Center to be co-located on the grounds of the existing Joliet Treatment Center in a ceremony this morning.

“My hometown of Joliet has been home to state correctional facilities over a span of three centuries. The oldest facility is the Joliet Correctional Center, built in 1858. In a building there called 'north seg,' the statement of faith 'It is never too late to mend' is set in tile in the main entrance floor,” McGuire said.

“We know that dictum is true for individuals. Today's groundbreaking demonstrates that it is true for our state, as well. Illinois is setting right its treatment of offenders with mental illness.

“I thank all who are cooperating in this project, especially Director John Baldwin and his DOC team.”

McGuire has for years focused efforts on bringing the facility to Joliet, including helping to secure the plans and state appropriations for the planned 180,000-square-foot, $150 million facility. The project will be one of the largest state construction efforts in recent years. The 200-bed inpatient treatment center is designed to accommodate male and female inmates and is expected employ more than 400 staff, including physicians, nurse practitioners and licensed psychologists.

Prophetess Michelle Baker of Revival Culture Church in Joliet delivered the opening prayer to the Illinois Senate March 14, 2019.

Sen. Pat McGuire and Rep. John Connor will be co-hosting an Illinois Treasurer’s I-Cash event at their joint district office Feb. 16. This event, which provides assistance to citizens in searching for and recovering unclaimed property held by the state, is free and open to the public. The flyer below has more details.