Minnesota is making significant changes to its correctional facilities, and the closure of the historic Stillwater prison is grabbing headlines across the state. While kare11 covers breaking news and updates daily, this article assembles insights and developments around the closure from multiple authoritative sources, helping you stay informed.
The Minnesota Department of Corrections has announced a phased closure of the Stillwater prison, which has stood since 1914. This correctional facility, located near Bayport, is Minnesota’s second-oldest and currently houses about 1,200 inmates. The building has been called outdated for years, and both staff and incarcerated people have frequently complained about poor infrastructure and living conditions. Issues like unhealthy water, lack of air conditioning, and crumbling structure have led officials to decide that closing the prison is the best path forward.
If you want a detailed breakdown of the economic and humanitarian factors driving this closure, read "DOC: Stillwater prison to fully close by 2029 - KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News". This comprehensive report highlights how the phased closure aligns with Minnesota’s broader economic plans while addressing urgent health and safety concerns.
With the shutdown planned for completion in 2029, there are still many questions about what the transition will look like. Layoffs are expected for some of the 565 staff members who currently manage the facility. The state must also find new accommodations for more than 1,200 inmates. Although the Department of Corrections states there are no plans for early releases, inmates will be relocated to other correctional facilities across Minnesota.
More information about the practical impacts, community reactions, and what comes next for those affected can be found in the Star Tribune’s in-depth article on the prison closure. This source discusses concerns raised by staff, union leaders, and local politicians while showing how the closure fits into Minnesota’s correctional history.
The closure of Stillwater is part of a larger pattern. Minnesota, like many states, faces the mounting costs of maintaining old prison infrastructure. Studies have estimated it would cost over a billion dollars to modernize the facility. By closing Stillwater, the state expects to save $40 million each year. The Minnesota government is considering options such as expanding capacity in other existing prisons and possibly utilizing previously decommissioned facilities. This move may also spur discussions about broader criminal justice reforms.
Additional facts, timelines, and updates about the transition are available at Bring Me The News, providing kare11 viewers with multiple perspectives on how this historic closure will affect Minnesota’s future.
The Stillwater prison closure marks a new chapter for Minnesota’s justice system. As kare11 continues to report on the progress, viewers should remain attentive to updates affecting corrections staff, families, and the broader community. Use the resources in this article for trustworthy information as Minnesota reimagines its approach to incarceration.