In response to concerns about jail overcrowding, state officials are considering a proposal to move some female inmates into a shuttered facility in Jefferson County.
The county jail in Bessemer closed in 2009 because of budget constraints. Alabama Department of Corrections Deputy Commissioner Jeffery Williams tells WBMA-TV (http://bit.ly/14XORzc ) the state's prison system is running at about 190 percent capacity, and Republican state Rep. Allen Farley, of McCalla, says it's time to consider whether the facility is suitable to house about 200 minimum security female inmates.
Aside from gradually easing jail overcrowding, officials say the move could create jobs and boost Bessemer's local economy.
Williams is expected to speak with state officials about the feasibility of the proposal.