By Matt Sepic, KWMU
Bonne Terre, MO – After a year-and-a-half wait, Missouri Governor Bob Holden cut the ribbon on a $168-million prison in Bonne Terre Monday.
The Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center about 60 miles south of St. Louis was built to hold nearly 2,700 inmates, but its opening was delayed because of state budget problems.
Governor Holden says more than 600 jobs will be one benefit for Bonne Terre.
Bonne Terre will be an intake center for offenders entering the prison system. Many will stay there permanently.
About 95 low-security prisoners have already moved in. Corrections officials hope to start regular operations next week.