ST. PAUL, Minn. (KFGO) – Two state lawmakers from west-central Minnesota are asking that Governor Tim Walz and the department of corrections give serious consideration to reopening the Prairie Correctional Center in Appleton. The privately-run prison closed in 2010.
Republican senator Torrey Westrom of Alexandra and Republican representative Paul Anderson of Starbuck say with the state preparing to close Stillwater state prison, reopening prairie correctional center would be more cost-effective than building a new prison.
“Reopening the Appleton prison is a common-sense solution that strengthens public safety, saves taxpayer dollars, and revitalizes a rural community,” Westrom said. “This facility is already in good condition and ready to serve Minnesota’s needs. It is an opportunity to act responsibly while bringing back hundreds of good-paying jobs to Swift County.”
“If we are closing Stillwater, we should take a look at Appleton as a common-sense solution to make up for lost beds,” Anderson said. “It is the right thing to do for the state and the Appleton area.”
The state plans to shut down Stillwater in phases, citing it’s age and the cost to maintain it. It was built in 1914.
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