Great Meadow Correctional Facility Closes Its Gates
A Bittersweet Farewell for Time Served Bar and Grill
COMSTOCK, N.Y. – Wednesday, November 6, 2024, marked the end of an era as Great Meadow Correctional Facility closed its gates for good. The Time Served Bar and Grill, located just across the road, held a "funeral" in memory of the facility’s closure.
The End of an Era
For 17 years, Time Served has been a staple in the community, serving local residents and employees of Great Meadow Corrections. Owner Rich Straub reflected on the facility’s history, stating, "What’d we have? 16 of them renting at one time? 16 COs renting. Of course, the price is so right, I only charged them $100 a week."
The Last Hurrah
With no plan to keep the business going without customers from the corrections facility, the Straubs have decided to hold one last party and call it a funeral. "It’s a funeral because that’s what it’s gonna feel like to all these COs that are working over there. It’s not a celebration of life. It’s… This is over for them," described Straub.
Community Reaction
NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski spoke with customers at the Fort Ann Super Stop to gauge their thoughts on the closure. While some were upset about the loss of local jobs and the potential impact on the local economy, others were relieved that the corrections facility would no longer be in the area.
What’s Next for the Property?
Although hundreds of employees will be leaving the area or searching for new jobs, not all hope is lost for the facility. The property will be repurposed in cooperation with DOCCS, OGS, and ESD. The site must first be officially decommissioned before New York State can pursue potential site redevelopment. Washington Correctional will be watching over the buildings in the meantime.
Conclusion
As the gates of Great Meadow Correctional Facility close for good, the community comes together to bid farewell to a piece of its history. While change can be difficult, there is always hope for a brighter future ahead.
FAQs
Q: What is the reason for the closure of Great Meadow Correctional Facility?
A: The facility has closed its gates for good.
Q: What is happening to the property?
A: The property will be repurposed in cooperation with DOCCS, OGS, and ESD.
Q: What is the plan for the facility’s former employees?
A: Hundreds of employees will be leaving the area or searching for new jobs.
Q: What is the current status of the site redevelopment?
A: The site must first be officially decommissioned before New York State can pursue potential site redevelopment.
