Mohawk Valley Times

Over the last 15 years, the state has closed 25 correctional facilities. Now, state officials have picked their latest target for prison closure: Sullivan Correctional Facilities in Sullivan County.

The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) has announced this closure with no plan to help mitigate the economic consequences on the region. The closure of Sullivan Correctional will not only result in the loss of nearly 600 jobs and families from the area but will also undermine the safety of correction officers, civilian staff, and inmates at other prisons. Without a sound reuse plan, the Sullivan Correctional site may likely turn into blight on the community.

"If changes need to be made to our correctional system, then it should come with sound planning on how to fix it, adequate notice to all those affected and actions to ensure these facilities can become economic drivers for their home community," an anonymous source stated. "I strongly oppose the closure of Sullivan Correctional Facilities and urge DOCCS to reconsider this decision."

The source further urged public support: "But I also need your help. SIGN this petition and tell DOCCS, 'Don’t close Sullivan Correctional!'"