What Prisons Are Closing in New York State? Get The Facts!

Understanding the evolving landscape of the state's correctional system is crucial for residents and stakeholders alike. The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) periodically reviews its operations, driven by factors such as fluctuating inmate populations and significant fiscal considerations. These evaluations often lead to decisions regarding facility consolidations or closures. Many are asking what prisons are closing in New York State, seeking clarity on the future of various correctional facilities and their impact on local communities. This objective overview provides factual information on these strategic adjustments to the state's penal infrastructure.

Image taken from the YouTube channel WKBW TV | Buffalo, NY , from the video titled NYS DOCCS to begin prison 'analysis,' up to three prisons could close .

In early 2024, New York State officials once again brought the issue of prison consolidation to the forefront, announcing the impending closure of several correctional facilities. This move, orchestrated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), continues a long-term trend aimed at reshaping the state's criminal justice landscape.

These decisions are not made in a vacuum. They are a direct response to a dramatic and sustained decline in the state's incarcerated population. Since reaching its peak in 1999, New York's prison population has fallen by an astounding 65%, a statistic that underscores a fundamental shift in statewide crime and sentencing patterns. This reduction has left the state with a surplus of prison beds, making the operation of its full roster of facilities both economically and logistically inefficient.

This introduction sets the stage for a deeper, objective exploration of these developments. We will examine the specific facilities impacted and the strategic rationale driving these significant closures.

Which New York Prisons Are Scheduled to Close?

For communities, employees, and families connected to the corrections system, the most pressing question is straightforward: what prisons are closing in New York State?

The latest announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul's administration has slated the following facilities for closure by March 10, 2025:

• Gowanda Correctional Facility: A medium-security prison located in Erie County.
• Watertown Correctional Facility: A medium-security prison located in Jefferson County.

In addition to these full-facility closures, DOCCS will also be shutting down the Southport Correctional Facility Residential Mental Health Treatment Unit and the Beacon Residential Center. According to state officials, no staff layoffs are anticipated, as affected employees will be offered transfers to other facilities.

While the news of prison closures often raises immediate questions about which facilities are affected, the "why" behind these decisions reveals a strategic shift in New York's approach to corrections. The state's actions are not sudden but are the culmination of long-term trends and deliberate policy choices.

The Strategic Reasons Behind New York's Prison Closures

The decision by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) to shutter several correctional facilities is rooted in two primary, interconnected factors: a dramatic and sustained decline in the state's inmate population and the resulting opportunity to achieve significant budget savings. This dual-pronged strategy reflects a fundamental realignment of the state's correctional landscape.

A Decades-Long Decline in Inmate Population

The most significant driver behind New York's prison closures is the simple fact that there are far fewer people incarcerated today than in previous decades. The state’s inmate population has plummeted by more than 57% from its peak of 72,773 in 1999 to fewer than 31,500 in recent years. This isn't a temporary dip but a consistent, two-decade trend.

This historic reduction has left the state with a surplus of prison beds and entire facilities that are severely underutilized. Operating these half-empty prisons is fiscally inefficient, as fixed costs for staffing, heating, and maintenance remain high regardless of the number of inmates housed within them.

This decline is directly linked to years of focused criminal justice reform efforts. Landmark changes, including the revision of the harsh Rockefeller Drug Laws, the implementation of "Raise the Age" legislation (which moved most 16- and 17-year-olds out of the adult criminal justice system), and other parole and sentencing reforms, have successfully reduced the number of people entering and staying in state prisons.

Driving Fiscal Responsibility Through Consolidation

With a smaller inmate population, consolidating operations becomes a logical and financially prudent strategy. Closing underutilized facilities allows DOCCS to achieve substantial budget savings and reallocate taxpayer money more effectively.

The financial impact is significant. The closure of six correctional facilities in 2021 was projected to save New York State taxpayers approximately $142 million annually. Similarly, the planned closures announced in the FY 2025 budget are part of a plan to streamline the system for long-term fiscal health. By shutting down a facility, the state eliminates massive operational expenses, from personnel and overtime costs to utilities and upkeep.

This approach allows the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) to consolidate the remaining population into other facilities that can operate closer to full capacity. This is not merely a cost-cutting measure but a strategic resizing of the correctional system to align with the current reality of a much smaller incarcerated population.

With the strategic framework for New York's prison consolidation now clear, the practical application of this policy comes into focus when examining the specific facilities targeted for closure. The decision, driven by population decline and budgetary needs, affects several key locations, each with a distinct history and role within the state's correctional system.

Key Facilities Undergoing Closure in New York State

The closures announced by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) encompass a range of facility types, from maximum-security prisons to specialized treatment centers. These shutdowns, which were finalized on March 10, 2022, represent a significant shift in the state's carceral landscape, particularly for communities in Upstate New York.

Downstate Correctional Facility

Located in Fishkill, Dutchess County, the Downstate Correctional Facility was a maximum-security prison that served a critical role as a major processing center for new male inmates entering the state system. Before its closure, individuals sentenced in New York City and surrounding counties were typically sent to Downstate for initial classification and assessment before being transferred to other facilities. Its closure affects not only the 600-plus staff members but also streamlines the intake process, which is now handled by other reception centers.

Watertown Correctional Facility

Situated in Jefferson County, the Watertown Correctional Facility was a medium-security prison and a significant employer in the North Country. Opened in 1982, it housed approximately 800 inmates and employed over 300 people. The closure of this facility underscores the deep impact of the state's consolidation efforts on the economic stability of smaller, rural communities in Upstate New York.

Gowanda Correctional Facility

The Gowanda Correctional Facility, located in Erie County, was a medium-security institution. Notably, it operated adjacent to the Collins Correctional Facility, and the two often worked in tandem. The decision to close Gowanda was part of a broader strategy to eliminate excess capacity in regions with multiple, underutilized prisons.

Ogdensburg Correctional Facility

Another key Upstate institution, the Ogdensburg Correctional Facility in St. Lawrence County, was a medium-security prison. Its closure sent significant economic ripples through the North Country, a region heavily reliant on state employment. The facility was a major local employer, and its shutdown was met with concern from local officials worried about the loss of stable, well-paying jobs in an area with limited economic alternatives.

Moriah Shock Incarceration Correctional Facility

The closure of the Moriah Shock Incarceration Correctional Facility in Essex County marked the end of a specific correctional model. This specialized facility ran a six-month, military-style "boot camp" program designed for younger, non-violent offenders. The program focused on discipline, physical training, and rehabilitation. Its closure reflects a statewide move away from the "shock incarceration" model in favor of other rehabilitative approaches.

Willard Drug Treatment Campus

Located in Seneca County, the Willard Drug Treatment Campus was a unique and vital part of New York's correctional system. It was not a traditional prison but a specialized campus providing a 90-day intensive drug treatment program as an alternative to a prison sentence for parolees. The closure of this facility signaled a major shift in how the state addresses substance abuse within the justice system, raising questions about the future of residential treatment programs for this population.

The Geographic Focus on Upstate New York

A clear pattern emerges when looking at the locations of these closures: five of the six facilities are located in Upstate New York. While the inmate population has declined statewide, the physical footprint of the prison system is most heavily concentrated in upstate rural counties.

For decades, these facilities have been foundational economic engines for their host communities, providing direct employment and supporting local businesses. Consequently, the impact of these prison closures is felt most acutely in these regions, creating an economic void and forcing a difficult transition for towns built around the correctional industry.

Transitioning from the specific facilities slated for closure, we now pivot to the broader ripple effects these decisions have, extending far beyond the prison walls. The closures ignite complex conversations about economic stability, workforce well-being, and logistical challenges, particularly impacting the fabric of communities that have long hosted these correctional centers.

Impact and Stakeholder Perspectives on Prison Closures

The New York State prison closures, while part of a broader correctional system reform, bring forth a multitude of challenges and concerns. These impacts are felt most acutely by the communities that have historically relied on these facilities, the dedicated staff who operate them, and the incarcerated individuals housed within them. Understanding these diverse perspectives is crucial to grasp the full scope of the closures.

Economic Impact on Local Communities

The economic ramifications of prison closures are particularly profound for communities in Upstate New York. Many towns in this region have grown to depend heavily on correctional facilities, which often serve as major employers and economic anchors. The closure of a facility can lead to a significant economic vacuum, challenging the very livelihoods of residents and the fiscal stability of local governments.

These facilities provide hundreds of jobs, not just for correctional officers but also for administrative staff, maintenance workers, and support personnel. The loss of these high-paying, often unionized, positions can decimate local job markets. Beyond direct employment, prisons generate demand for local businesses—restaurants, retail stores, and service providers—which cater to staff and their families, as well as visitors. The reduction in this commerce can lead to a ripple effect, causing small businesses to struggle or close, and ultimately impacting property values and the local tax base. Adapting these economies, often in areas with limited alternative employment opportunities, presents a substantial long-term challenge.

Impact on Correctional Officers and Prison Staff

The direct effects on correctional officers and prison staff are immediate and deeply personal. Thousands of individuals face uncertainty regarding their futures. Key concerns include:

• Job Security: While many officers may be offered transfers to other facilities within the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NYS DOCCS) system, these transfers often involve relocation, disrupting family life and incurring significant financial burdens.
• Transfers and Commutes: Officers may face long commutes to retain their employment, or be forced to move their families to new communities, which can be particularly challenging for those with school-aged children or elderly dependents.
• Retirement Options: For some, early retirement may be the only viable option if transfer locations are impractical or undesirable, potentially affecting their long-term financial stability and pension benefits.

The New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) has consistently voiced strong opposition to these closures, citing concerns about the welfare of their members. NYSCOPBA emphasizes the dedication and service of these officers, highlighting the emotional and financial strain that such systemic changes impose on their families. They advocate for comprehensive support packages, including relocation assistance, robust retraining programs, and clear communication channels to mitigate the adverse impacts on their members.

Considerations for Inmate Transfers

While not the primary focus of community and staff impact, the logistical process of inmate transfers is an essential consideration in prison closures. When a facility closes, all incarcerated individuals must be reassigned and moved to other operational correctional facilities across the state. This process requires meticulous planning to ensure safety, security, and the appropriate placement of individuals based on their security level, medical needs, and programmatic requirements. It also briefly impacts family visitation, as relatives must adjust to new visitation locations and schedules.

Having explored the significant ripple effects and concerns raised by local communities and correctional staff due to prison closures, it becomes crucial to understand the driving force and strategic vision behind these profound changes: the state administration. New York's correctional landscape is undergoing a deliberate transformation, spearheaded by key governmental figures and agencies.

State Administration's Role and Future Outlook

The decision to close correctional facilities is a complex undertaking, intricately tied to the broader policy objectives and fiscal realities of New York State. This strategic shift is largely guided by the state administration, with official pronouncements and detailed planning shaping the future of incarceration within the state.

Governor Kathy Hochul's Vision for Correctional Reform

Governor Kathy Hochul has been a central figure in advocating for and implementing these prison closures, framing them as a necessary step in modernizing New York's correctional system. Her administration often cites a significant decline in the incarcerated population over the past two decades as a primary rationale. For instance, New York's prison population has seen a substantial reduction, dropping from a peak of over 70,000 inmates in the late 1990s to approximately 31,000 to 32,000 in 2023. This demographic shift, coupled with the rising operational costs of maintaining underutilized facilities, presents a compelling economic argument.

Governor Hochul's statements consistently emphasize the need for fiscal prudence and the reallocation of resources towards more effective public safety initiatives. Official remarks often underscore the state's commitment to creating a "smarter, safer, and more just" system, aligning prison closures with broader goals of criminal justice reform rather than solely cost-cutting measures. The closures are presented not as an abandonment of public safety but as an evolution of correctional strategy to fit current needs and demographic realities.

DOCCS's Strategic Transition Management

The operational arm responsible for executing these closures is the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). DOCCS plays a pivotal role in managing the intricate logistics of these transitions, with a dual focus on maintaining public safety and ensuring the humane treatment and transfer of inmates. Their planning encompasses several critical areas:

• Inmate Transfers: A meticulous process is undertaken to transfer incarcerated individuals to other operational facilities within the state system. This involves careful assessment of security needs, program availability, and familial visitation considerations to minimize disruption.
• Staff Reassignment and Support: Recognizing the impact on correctional officers and civilian staff, DOCCS works in conjunction with unions like NYSCOPBA to facilitate transfers to other facilities, offer retirement incentives, or provide assistance with new career opportunities. The goal is to mitigate job losses and support the workforce through these significant changes.
• Facility Decommissioning: The department is also responsible for the physical decommissioning of closed facilities, which can involve securing the grounds, managing assets, and exploring potential future uses for the properties in consultation with local communities. This often includes environmental assessments and the transfer of ownership.

DOCCS’s public statements affirm their commitment to an orderly and transparent process, ensuring that the correctional system continues to operate efficiently and safely throughout these strategic adjustments.

Prison Closures within Broader Criminal Justice Reform

The closures of correctional facilities in New York State are not isolated incidents but rather an integral component of a larger, ongoing narrative of criminal justice reform. Over the past decade, New York has implemented a series of landmark legislative reforms aimed at reducing incarceration rates, promoting rehabilitation, and addressing systemic inequities.

These reforms include the Raise the Age legislation (enacted 2017), which ended the practice of prosecuting 16- and 17-year-olds as adults, and significant bail reform measures (implemented 2019, amended 2020) designed to reduce reliance on cash bail. These policy shifts have demonstrably contributed to the declining incarcerated population, creating the conditions under which facility closures become feasible.

By strategically reducing the number of operational prisons, the state administration aims to consolidate resources, potentially allowing for greater investment in rehabilitation programs, mental health services within correctional facilities, and community-based alternatives to incarceration. The closures signify a move towards a correctional system that is not only smaller but also, ideally, more focused on recidivism reduction and successful reintegration into society. This long-term vision positions New York at the forefront of states attempting to reshape their criminal justice infrastructure in response to evolving societal needs and reform imperatives.

Staying informed about the dynamic changes within New York's correctional system is always beneficial. We hope this overview has clarified what prisons are closing in New York State, providing the facts you need to understand these developments. Continue to follow official announcements for the most up-to-date information.