Allan B. Polunsky Unit

Houses Texas Death Row (men) and high-security inmates. Located near Livingston in Polk County.

Overview

The Allan B. Polunsky Unit is a high-security prison in Polk County. TDCJ identifies it as the location for men on Texas death row, in addition to other high-security and restrictive-housing populations.

Death Row Visiting

Death row visits are non-contact. In practical terms, that means the visitor and the incarcerated person are separated by glass or another physical barrier, and no physical contact occurs during the visit.

What non-contact means during the visit

• No handshake, embrace, or handholding
• Conversation through the unit’s non-contact setup
• Closer staff control over movement and timing
• More reliance on exact identification, scheduling, and housing status

Visiting Logistics

• TDCJ scheduling rules still apply.
• Death-row status and restrictive housing can affect available days and internal movement.
• The unit should be contacted or the portal checked before travel.

Directions From Houston

Livingston is roughly 75 miles north to northeast of Houston depending on the route.

• Use US-59 North toward Livingston.
• Move west toward FM 350 after reaching the Livingston area.
• Continue south on FM 350 to the unit.

The final stretch is more rural than the interstate portion of the trip.

Parking and Nearby Services

• Parking is available at the unit.
• Livingston has basic food, gas, and lodging options.
• Services become more limited away from town and along FM roads closer to the facility.

Learn More

• Visiting in Texas
• Phone and Video Calls in Texas
• Transfers and Facility Changes in Texas