(11/28/06) THE BRONX ? In a move to cut costs, a state commission recommended the closure of the Bronx?s Westchester Square Medical Center Tuesday.

Westchester Square is one of nine hospitals recommended for closure by the commission. The panel also recommended dozens of hospitals and nursing homes merge. The Commission on Health Care Facilities in the 21st Century says the closures and mergers could save the state up to $800 million.

Four other city hospitals were also targeted for closure. Those hospitals are St. Vincent?s Midtown Hospital, Cabrini Medical Center, Victory Memorial Hospital and Parkway Hospital. Governor George Pataki (R-NY) now has until December 5 to send the recommendations to the Legislature. Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno said his chamber will review the recommendations and hold a public hearing December 1.

Related information: Commission's full report Westchester Square Medical Center could land on chopping block