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"Save Oneida Correctional Facility" rally held in Utica

By CAROLINE GABLE

Story Created: Jul 12, 2011 at 3:40 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jul 12, 2011 at 5:22 PM EDT

UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) - The fight to keep the Oneida Correctional Facility in Rome from closing continued in Utica Tuesday outside of the State Office Building.

Petitioners say they want the facts, figures and statistics that Governor Andrew Cuomo used to decide that Oneida Correctional should be among several prisons to be shut down. Corrections officers, civilian employees, family, and friends believe that very data would show closing Oneida Correctional isn't in the best interest of taxpayers.

With signs and lots of spirit, supporters know they are facing an uphill battle, but they hope their voices will be heard as far away as Albany. The closure could happen as soon as October 1, affecting 333 jobs.

While some employees will be relocated locally, the majority of workers will be assigned to other facilities across the state. The move will not only have a negative effect on families, but will also mean a loss of business in Rome.

Click the video for a live interview from the scene of the rally Tuesday evening.

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