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Group proposes closing smallest Wash. prison

The Associated Press • Published November 08, 2009

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SEATTLE – A consulting group has recommended that Washington state close its smallest prison, the Ahtanum View Corrections Center in Yakima, to cut costs.

Christopher Murray and Associates made the recommendation in a final report last week, and it's almost identical to a draft report last month. The state's Office of Financial Management will take it under consideration as it develops the governor's 2010 supplemental budget.

Ahtanum View houses elderly and infirm inmates.

The consultant also suggests either closing the old buildings at the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla or downsizing a facility on McNeil Island to a minimum-security prison.

The goal is to eliminate 1,580 prison beds across the state.