Gov. Gavin Newsom Identifies the Fifth State Prison to Close Due to Falling Incarcerated Population

Riverside County is home to the next state prison set to close as part of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s response to the decreasing incarcerated population.

The city of Norco has long advocated for the closure of the California Rehabilitation Center, asserting that the site could be repurposed for more beneficial uses. Historically, this location served as an Art Deco hotel before becoming a state prison.

The facility is expected to cease operations in 2026. Recently, Newsom’s corrections department announced that the location is no longer necessary due to a decline in the state’s incarcerated population.

This will mark the fifth prison closure during Newsom’s tenure. The state anticipates saving approximately $150 million as a result of shutting down the facility.

Reference: https://calmatters.org/justice/2025/08/california-prison-close-norco/