HARRISBURG, PA — In case you missed it, the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) has announced plans to close SCI Rockview, Quehanna Boot Camp, and two Community Corrections Centers (CCCs) in a proposal aimed at reducing costs and improving resource alignment within the state’s correctional system. If implemented, the closures are expected to save the Commonwealth $10 million next fiscal year, with anticipated long-term savings surpassing $100 million.
Secretary Dr. Laurel R. Harry has emphasized the DOC’s commitment to protecting staff members through this process, confirming that all affected employees will be guaranteed job offers at their current pay and classification in nearby facilities. “Supporting [our staff] during this transition is a top priority,” Secretary Harry stated.
The closures are part of the Department’s participation in the Resource Evaluation and Mission Alignment Project (REMAP), a strategic initiative designed to optimize the DOC’s operations while ensuring efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Submitted per Act 133 of 2018, the proposal triggers a three-month public comment period during which feedback from community members and stakeholders will be collected before any final decisions are confirmed.
SCI Rockview, located in Centre County, is the second-oldest facility in the DOC system. Built in 1915, it houses approximately 2,148 inmates but requires $74 million in upgrades over the next five years. It currently employs 658 staff members. The facility has also been flagged for accessibility issues, as it does not meet modern wheelchair accessibility standards.
Quehanna Boot Camp, acquired by the DOC in 1991 and located in Clearfield County, focuses on rehabilitating lower-risk inmates. However, this facility requires over $5.7 million in urgent upgrades, a figure projected to climb to $12.4 million within the next decade. Designed without traditional security measures, the Boot Camp employs 234 staff members and houses 348 inmates.
Additionally, two CCCs—Wernersville CCC in Berks County and Progress CCC in Greene County—are set to close in approximately three months. Unlike SCI Rockview and Quehanna Boot Camp, the CCCs are not subject to Act 133’s public comment requirements. DOC officials have pledged to secure placement for all affected employees.
Secretary Harry emphasized that these changes are essential for the DOC to allocate resources strategically while meeting the needs of staff, the incarcerated population, and the surrounding communities. The Department also highlighted plans to relocate Boot Camp programs and ensure employment opportunities remain within an appropriate distance for affected staff—no more than 67 miles, according to current proposals.
The closures reflect Pennsylvania’s evolving approach to corrections, focusing on modern, cost-effective strategies to maintain public safety and resource efficiency. Looking ahead, the state plans to evaluate stakeholder feedback and closely monitor the broader impacts of these initiatives on both corrections staff and local communities.
The public is encouraged to share feedback on the proposal during the three-month comment period, with the DOC aiming to complete the process transparently and thoughtfully, ensuring a fair transition for all parties involved.
The full steering committee report to Secretary Harry is available here. Submit feedback via email at ra-crdocclose@pa.gov or leave a voicemail at 888-316-8950. Public hearings will be held in the affected counties, with details to be announced.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.