Friday Funny: San Diego Maximum Security Zoological & Convict Reserve Opens

Facing a tight budget, officials in California have found an innovative way to mix uses and save money -- by combining a zoo and a prison into one efficient facility.

1 minute read

May 16, 2008, 2:00 PM PDT

By Nate Berg

"Plagued by a lack of funding and growing staff shortages, the San Diego Zoo and Ironwood State Prison were combined earlier this week, bringing local inmates and wildlife together for the first time under the same roof."

"The new state-of-the-art facility-which will house 12 separate cell blocks, a reptile house, two weight rooms, and a primate sanctuary-is expected to save the state of California up to $5 million in operation costs over the next year."

"'It is with great pride that I announce the opening of the San Diego Maximum Security Zoological & Convict Reserve,' director David Hennessey said at an opening ceremony Tuesday. 'From southern white rhinos to repeat offenders serving 20 years for drug trafficking-you'll find them all here at our amazing new facility.'"

FULL STORY: San Diego Zoo, Prison Merge

Thursday, May 15, 2008 in The Onion

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