The plan to replace Men's Central Jail with a new facility focused on mental health treatment could result in towers of up to 400 feet in height, according to a draft environmental impact report being circulated by Los Angeles County.

The project, called the Consolidated Correctional Treatment Facility, would include a maximum of 3,885 beds, as well as other support functions. The 2.4-million-square-foot complex would require the demolition of the existing Men's Central Jail.

Construction of a new off-site parking structure is being considered as part of the CCTF project. The County is studying two alternatives: a 1,500-car facility at 725-747 N. Spring Street, or a larger 3,000-space garage on the vacant four-acre lot at 1060 N. Vignes Street.

A shade and shadow study indicates that plans call for a pair of 400-foot towers, positioned toward the west side of the existing Men's Central Jail property.

The CCTF is part of L.A. County's controversial $2-billion jail plan, which also calls for the construction of a new women's prison in Lancaster. Numerous community activists have expressed opposition to the project, although Sheriff Jim McDonnell has argued that the proposed CCTF is actually not large enough.

The project moves forward as Metro and L.A. County officials continue to push forward with dramatic plans to remake Union Station as a busy commercial hub. The historic rail terminal is located just south of the jail complex.