How SCI Mercer Changed From a Regional Facility to a State Correctional Institution (what families should know)

SCI Mercer started out as a State Regional Correctional Facility (SRCF). It was established on June 23, 1978, and opened its doors on July 5, 1978, in Findley Township, Mercer County.

When SRCF Mercer first opened, it operated differently than what most people picture when they hear "state prison." The facility received short-term male county offenders from 14 northwestern Pennsylvania counties - essentially serving as a regional intake hub for that part of the state.

In its early years, SRCF Mercer was small by prison standards. It held up to 180 minimum-security inmates and operated with a staff of 100 - a modest scale that reflected the population it was designed to manage.

The big shift families should know about happened in 2008. That year, SRCF Mercer converted from a regional facility to a State Correctional Institution (SCI). On July 1, 2008, the custody level changed to level 2–3. Why does this matter? The "regional facility to SCI" conversion signals a different classification within Pennsylvania's prison system. Custody level is one way the state categorizes facilities, and moving to level 2–3 reflects a different security profile than a purely level 2 setting. If you're trying to understand why certain procedures, restrictions, or classifications apply to your loved one, this 2008 change is a key piece of the puzzle.

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• ✓ Confirm how your loved one is classified (custody level and housing) and ask whether that affects visiting eligibility or scheduling
• ✓ Verify the current visitation schedule and any unit-specific limits before you plan a trip
• ✓ Ask what identification is required for visitors and whether any approvals are needed in advance
• ✓ Check current dress-code expectations and what property you’re allowed to bring in
• ✓ Confirm how mail is handled and what address format the facility requires
• ✓ If you’re sending money or setting up phone/video contact, ask which services are used right now and what the current steps are

These checks aren't meant to imply any specific rule is in place today - they're just the fastest way to avoid surprises. Since SCI Mercer's role and custody level changed in 2008, verify current procedures directly with the institution before you travel, send funds, or mail anything important.