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South Dakota lawmakers approved a $650 million plan to build a new 1,500-bed men's state penitentiary.

The new prison will replace the 144-year-old facility known as "the Hill" and will be located in northeast Sioux Falls.

Funding for the project, the most expensive in state history, will come from cash reserves and anticipated interest earnings.

PIERRE — After 144 years, South Dakota lawmakers decided Tuesday it’s time for “the Hill” to retire.

The required two-thirds of each legislative chamber voted to endorse a 1,500-bed, $650 million replacement for the state penitentiary building that opened its doors when South Dakota was still Dakota Territory. The new men’s prison will be the most expensive capital project ever funded by the state’s taxpayers.

Lawmakers c

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