Jail Renovations Nearing Completion

TYLER — The Smith County Jail has been under renovation for quite some time now. KETK reports phase two of three is now finished. Phase two includes a new holding and booking center, an in-house infirmary, 384 additional beds, and new surveillance systems. Officials say the improvements significantly diminish risk to the public. They say the infirmary alone will save taxpayers almost $800,000 a year in inmate medical expenses. It includes three operating tables, a dentist’s chair, and even rooms for solitary confinement so diseases won’t spread. Plans call for phase three to be complete in November, with the new renovations fully functioning.