SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Senator Dan Rutherford (R-Pontiac) offered the following comments after Gov. Quinn’s announcement to keep Pontiac Correctional Center open.

"I am pleased to share the good news that Pontiac Correctional Center will remain open and operational," announced Senator Rutherford.  "For the past few days, I have been working with Governor Quinn’s office regarding Pontiac Correctional Center.  I was not authorized to make an announcement until this afternoon.

"I know that it has been a very stressful time for the employees, families and the citizens of Pontiac and Central Illinois since former Gov. Blagojevich announced his intention to close Pontiac," Rutherford said. "I want to extend my appreciation to Gov. Quinn and to all the men and women who have worked so hard in gathering the proof to show that Pontiac Correctional Center is important to our area and the entire public safety network.  It is refreshing to have a Governor who will work with the Legislators and do what is best for our great State."