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Cash-Strapped Calif. Considers Selling San Quentin

By Harry Kimball,  Newser Staff

Posted Mar 31, 2009 7:05 PM CDT

(Newser) – Some state lawmakers have proposed a novel solution for California's budget problems: sell San Quentin Prison, the San Francisco Chronicle reports. Experts estimate the 435-acre site, picturesquely situated on a peninsula overlooking San Francisco Bay, could go for more than $2 billion. About half of that would go toward building a replacement prison—for some 5,300 inmates, including Death Row—and the rest could help stem the state’s ballooning budget gap.

A guard tower is seen on the grounds of the California State Prison in picturesque San Quentin.
A guard tower is seen on the grounds of the California State Prison in picturesque San Quentin.   (Getty Images)
A guard stands at the entrance to the California State Prison at San Quentin.
A guard stands at the entrance to the California State Prison at San Quentin.   (Getty Images)
The gymnasium at San Quentin State Prison is filled with nearly 400 double-bunked inmates because of crowded conditions.
The gymnasium at San Quentin State Prison is filled with nearly 400 double-bunked inmates because of crowded conditions.   (AP Photo)
A guard opens the door to the building housing a new death chamber at San Quentin State Prison.
A guard opens the door to the building housing a new death chamber at San Quentin State Prison.   (AP Photo)
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COMMENTS
Showing 1 of 1 comment
PosterNutbag
Apr 1, 2009 7:53 AM CDT
We would not need to build a replacement. 32 prisons would still be more than enough, I say.
 

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