Grundy Reporter

State Senator Sally Turner, State Representative Bill Hauter, Logan County Board Chairman Emily Davenport, and Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch have voiced their concerns over the Governor's plan to close and rebuild Stateville Correctional Center and Logan Correctional Center. The announcement has left many uncertainties regarding the fate of employees, inmates, and the local communities.

The Governor's proposal to allocate $900 million for the maintenance and modernization of Department of Corrections facilities, with the intention to demolish and rebuild Logan and Stateville, has raised questions among the legislators. The lack of details or commitments on the location of the new Logan Correctional Center has particularly drawn scrutiny.

The local officials highlighted the significant impact of the closures on the more than 500 direct jobs, additional indirect jobs, and economic benefits provided by Logan Correctional Center. They acknowledged the need for repairs but criticized the current state of disrepair due to administrative neglect and misplaced priorities.

Moreover, the local union representing the two facilities expressed opposition to the plan, citing concerns that any temporary closures would disrupt the prison system and bring upheaval to the lives of employees and individuals in custody.

According to the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability process, the construction of new facilities will only proceed once all requirements of the State Facilities Closure Act are fulfilled. Detailed information about this process, including a timeline, can be accessed through official channels.