High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Wallens Ridge State Prison is a state prison located in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. Since opening in 1999, it has been a part of the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Corrections. The current warden of the facility is Bryan Watson.Security Level 5 - Assignment Criteria: Long Term; Single, multiple, & Life + sentences. No disruptive behavior for at least past 24 months prior to consideration for a transfer to any less-secure facility.Specifications: Opened - April, 1999 Average Daily Population - 1200 Population - 693 Highest Security Level - Super-Max Facility Type - State Prison.The prison was built for over $70 million. As of 1999 the prison employs almost 800 people.