Autauga County Jail Set to Reopen After Extensive Renovations

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News Summary

After a year of closures due to mold and safety concerns, Autauga County Jail will reopen in November following significant renovations and investments.

Autauga County Jail Set to Reopen After Extensive Renovations

After a lengthy closure resulting from critical safety concerns, the Autauga County Jail is on track to reopen this November. The facility, which has been shuttered for nearly a year, suffered from severe mold issues that rendered it uninhabitable for both inmates and staff. Authorities deemed the conditions unacceptable, with alarming reports of mold covering door handles, tools, and various surfaces throughout the building.

A long-standing problem finally addressed

For years, the Autauga County Jail has needed repairs, a fact acknowledged by *Sheriff Mark Harrell*. Prior attempts to tackle the structural and health concerns fell short, leaving escalating issues to compound into a crisis. Following a comprehensive mold and water test last year, the sheriff made the decisive call to relocate inmates to other counties, prioritizing their health and safety.

The county faced significant financial repercussions due to the jail’s closure, incurring over $1 million in unexpected expenses to house inmates elsewhere. Daily housing costs fluctuate between $35 and $50 per inmate, depending on the facility used, adding to the urgency of addressing the jail’s myriad problems.

Massive funding and renovation underway

Anticipated refurbishments at the jail are substantial, with reports indicating that the overall renovation project is projected to exceed $16 million. This investment encompasses significant remodels within the jail, the installation of new heating and air conditioning systems, and upgrades to the electrical systems in the nearby county courthouse, which has also necessitated temporary closures.

Areas of concern within the jail have undergone extensive remodeling, with a $575,516 contract awarded specifically for mold cleanup efforts, which have since been completed. More renovations, categorized as Phase 2, will include improvements to inmate housing areas, jail ceilings, and security lighting. Remarkably, crews are reportedly ahead of schedule in their work, offering a glimmer of hope for a timely reopening.

Courtroom closures and courthouse renovations

Additionally, as part of the ongoing renovations in Autauga County, the courthouse will experience closures from *Tuesday through Friday* to address further upgrades. Court cases and responsibilities are set to be temporarily relocated to the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office squad room, minimizing disruption during the renovation period.

Fostering collaboration amidst challenges

The current situation in the jail symbolizes years of administrative challenges. Initial tensions emerged between Sheriff Harrell and the county commissioners, with each party accusing the other of insufficient communication and overreactions regarding the jail’s conditions. However, recent efforts have fostered a collaborative atmosphere as they work together to find solutions and ensure comprehensive improvements.

Looking ahead

The Autauga Metro Jail, which originally opened its doors in May 2004, primarily houses inmates facing felony charges, alongside misdemeanor offenders from the City of Prattville. With the impending renovations, the goal is to create a safer environment for both inmates and staff, thus enhancing overall operational effectiveness.

As the opening date approaches, both residents and officials are left hopeful that the comprehensive improvements will finally bring the Autauga County Jail up to standard, allowing it to serve the community effectively and safely moving forward.