Capital District Youth Center, Inc
CDYCI History |Facility Rededication- June 5, 2025
Capital District Youth Center, Inc (CDYCI)
CDYCI is the administrator for the Capital District Juvenile Secure Detention Facility, the first multi-county detention center for youth in the nation. The 39-bed facility is administered by the Capital District Youth Center, Inc. and operated by Together for Youth.
The Capital District Youth Center, Inc. was created jointly by the four counties as a not-for-profit public corporation to perform a municipal service pursuant to Internal Revenue Service Ruling 63-20, with the authority to issue tax exempt bonds. The project was structured to guarantee priority of bed space by the four participating counties. CDRPC’s Executive Director serves as the chief administrator of the facility.
As a result of New York State’s Raise the Age Law, the facility began accepting youth aged 16 in 2017 and aged 17 in 2018. After several years of planning, design and coordination, the first major renovation in a quarter century began in January 2023. The renovations were completed in June 2025.
As part of the improvements, the project added a 12 bed dormitory, expanded visitation areas, a new administrative wing, and a secure, enclosed sally port and intake space to improve privacy and safety. In addition, the facility now includes updated fire suppression and smoke alarm systems that meet current code standards. These enhancements were essential to meet both functional needs and regulatory requirements. The facility’s capacity increased from 24 – 39 beds.
Technology enhancements also played a key role in supporting youth development. The facility now offers fiber internet and expanded Wi-Fi to improve access to education and vocational training. Furthermore, a state-of-the-art security system boosted camera coverage from 8 to 136, significantly enhancing safety. With these improvements, the facility is better prepared to serve youth in a more supportive and secure environment.
In terms of recreational spaces, the redesigned outdoor area includes a full basketball court, an outdoor gym, and picnic areas, features that promote physical activity, social interaction, and a sense of normalcy. To further advance sustainability efforts, a rooftop solar PV system now powers the facility and helps reduce long-term energy costs. Together, these upgrades reflect a holistic approach to rehabilitation and care.
CDYCI Board of Directors 2025-2026
Albany County
William Connors * Vice President
Kristin Swinton
Jasmine Higgins
Rensselaer County
Laura Bauer* Secretary
Michael Stammel
Saratoga County
Craig Warner* Treasurer
Susan Costanzo
Schenectady County
Gary Hughes*, President
Gilah Moses
Chief Administrator
Mark Castiglione, AICP
Audit and Finance Committee – All Officers with the exception of the Treasurer are members of the Audit and Finance Committee.
+ Governance Committee Members
Since 1970, the State Division of Criminal Justice Services has used CDRPC as the Region’s coordinator for federally funded human resource and criminal justice services.