Riverbend Maximum Security Institution

Riverbend Maximum Security Institution (RMSI), located in Nashville, has an operating capacity of 786 inmates and houses male inmates with custody levels ranging from minimum to maximum security. Riverbend also houses all of Tennessee’s male death row inmates.

RMSI is composed of 20 different buildings with approximately 320,000 square feet of operating space and sits on 132 acres. The facility opened in 1989 to replace its 100-year-old neighbor, the Tennessee State Penitentiary, and is billed as one of the most high-tech prisons in the state.

Riverbend offers its population a variety of evidence-based programs to meet the rehabilitative needs of inmates. Inmates have access to Adult Basic Education, and vocational programming including career management for success and Core Carpentry I & II. RMSI also addresses the behavioral health needs of inmates by offering programs such as psychotherapy, mental health support, substance use group therapy, and cognitive behavior intervention program.

Through community partnerships, RMSI offers:

• Building Construction Technology certification through Tennessee College of Applied Technology.
• Associate degree program through Nashville State Community College.
• Associate degree program through Lipscomb University.
• The Braille Transcription Program through the Tennessee Rehabilitative Initiative In Correction (TRICOR), where inmates transcribe regular textbooks into braille and large print for students at Tennessee School for the Blind. Inmates can become certified in braille transcription through the National Library of Congress.

Inmates not involved in academic or vocational programs are required to work in support service roles throughout the prison including landscaping, janitorial services, or food services.

Watch the video below to learn more about the Braille Transcription Program at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution.