The state Department of Public Safety announced today that it will close Kulani Correctional Facility on the Big Island by the end of October.

Clayton Frank, the department's director, said the decision to close the minimum-security prison in Hilo will save the state $2.8 million and help with the state's budget deficit.
Kulani's 123 inmates, including 75 who are in a sex offender treatment program, will be moved to other facilities, including Halawa and the federal detention center.
Frank said none of the inmates would be released early.
The state Department of Defense plans to use the 20-acre Kulani facility for its youth challenge program.