By Associated Press
Tuscaloosa, AL – State officials and preservationists are developing a plan to save the old Bryce Hospital, a cradle of civil rights for American mental patients.
Built on the eve of the Civil War, Bryce is located on a 209-acre tract that borders the University of Alabama. The school has long coveted the land and now needs room to expand as it dramatically increases enrollment.
But state mental health officials and supporters fear such a deal could lead to the demolition of the historic building.
The cost of saving Bryce is uncertain, but it could easily reach into the millions. Some patient advocates are more interested in spending money on people than preservation.
But Tom Hobbs, a mental health professional in metro Birmingham, said the building should be preserved because of its historical significance.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)