Bartlett Unit reopening in Williamson County

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) -- The Bartlett Unit, formerly known as the Bartlett State Jail, is reopening, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and the City of Bartlett announced. The unit is projected to open in early October.

According to the TDCJ, the decision to reopen the unit "stems from a rise in prison population and the need for additional beds." The unit was previously shut down "due to a declining inmate population."

“The Barlett Unit opening will bring a significant boost to our local economy by offering much-needed jobs, from corrections officers to support staff,” said City of Bartlett Mayor Chad Mees in the release.

The unit will house approximately 1,049 inmates and will operate as an "innovative unit," the release said.

"It will offer a new approach to programs and services designed to support successful rehabilitation and reintegration into society upon release," the TDCJ said in the release.

Reopening the unit will also open up "the creation of new jobs," the release said.

Barlett Unit will hosting a hiring event on July 23 and 24 at 1018 Arnold Drive in Barlett.