Because of the weather and remote location, it was called Alcatraz when built.
There's a golf course right next door. Played it many times. The area is a banana belt, very little snow and highs in the 50's all winter long. Can get a bit warm in summer, but it's a dry heat.
Technically, speaking it was built in 1994. I don't doubt they gave it that name to instill respect, but remote, it is not.
Not trying to argue with you. I only point these things out to show the hyperbole in the article.
WRT the weather, that part of the state actually has really mild climate. (See: US Climate Data - Canon City, CO) In fact, Canon City is known as the "the Climate Capital of Colorado" because it's unique location shields it from the harsh weather conditions seen in other parts of the state. Due to its location next to the Black Hills, Rapid City, SD is similarly shielded.
I don't live there, but Canon City is one of the places in the US I'm looking to retire, mainly for the low cost of living and mild climate.