The Community Work Program Building at the Middlesex County Jail & House of Correction campus in Billerica was originally built in 1935 as a cannery. 

Habeeb & Associates Architects was hired to analyze and design the structural stabilization of the roof, which suffered damage during the winter of 2015. 

While conduction the roof structure assessment, the H&A team identified many elements of the building which required upgrading. A project scope was developed to include interior alterations for security, life-safety, and functionality.

H&A designed a new medical room, and an interior stair addition to provide a second means of egress from the partially below grade basement. Mechanical upgrades included a new makeup air unit for 2nd floor inmate sleeping areas and a new kitchen exhaust hood with built-in fire suppression system. 

Interior spaces were redesigned to meet current standards including inmate areas, food service, and environmental improvements. The fire alarm system was replaced to meet the requirements of the latest building codes. Linked communication between four buildings and security upgrades were included in the scope. Exterior Renovations included masonry repairs and an accessible entrance system at the Work Release Building.