A decision is expected within a few weeks now on the fate of two area State Prison Facilities.
The Department Of Corrections has issued a statement in response to public hearings, about the possible closures of SCI Rockview and Quehanna Boot Camp
The Department Of Corrections has faced backlash over the proposed closing of SCI Rockview and the Quehanna Boot Camp. Two public hearings drew large crowds, and the D.O.C. This week responding to some of the commentary, also released the names of those on the D.O.C. Steering Committee who made the recommendation, saying the names weren’t released earlier due to fears of intimidation.
The D.O.C. says closing the two facilities will save millions of dollars in future maintenance costs. But there are are claims some of that maintenance is already done.
The D.O.C. admits thats partially true, but says Rockview still would need $74 million dollars in repairs, in the next five years, and at Quehnna, that cost is $6.8 million. Another issue is what happens to the thousand of acres of prison property, which is located between State College and Bellefonte If Rockview is closed.
There’s been talk of a deal involved to sell the property. But, during a State legislative hearing in March, a Department Of Corrections Administrator testified, if Rockview is closed, part of the property will remain with the Department of Corrections:
“Sci Rockview sits right next to SCI Benner. there is a corridor of a reservoir and water treatment that was just updated. That reservoir provides water to both facilities. So there is a good section of Rockview that we would definitely have to maintain, as it provides utilities to the facilities”
As for concerns about possible overcrowding at other State Prisons, if the closings force the transfer of inmates, the D.O.C. says the capacity number for men throughout the State Prison system will still be under 90 percent, and for females it would be less than 80 percent, if the closings occur.