The California Correctional Facility in Norco, originally opened as the Norconian resort in 1929, is slated to close in 2026 due to a falling state prison population. The closure could save the state about $150 million. Norco city leaders aim to restore the site as an upscale resort, citing its Art Deco architecture, lake views, and extensive grounds. Restoration faces significant obstacles, including renovating historic Art Deco features, remediating asbestos, and addressing potential layoffs of correctional staff. The property previously served as a Naval hospital and medical hub during World War II.
Rex Clark, who founded the city of Norco, built the Norconian after discovering hot water sulfur springs, which are believed to have therapeutic benefits. The resort debuted on Feb. 2, 1929 with a star-studded grand opening showcasing amenities including boating, an airfield, horseback riding, mineral baths, tennis, golf and swimming, according to the Lake Norconian Club Foundation. He decided to build the greatest resort on the West Coast, Bash said. Thousands of people showed up. It was a huge success.
Unfortunately 1929 was not the best year to open a resort, because the Great Depression hit. The resort closed, but during World War II the property gained a new purpose. On December 8, 1941, the day after the Pearl Harbor attack, the Norconian reopened as a Naval hospital. It then became the Pacific Theater hub for polio, tuberculosis, rheumatic fever, and a paraplegic center, Bash said. Doctors from the Mayo Clinic joined Sister Elizabeth Kenny,
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