Walker County is on the path to building a new jail.

We've been telling you for months about the dilapidated structure that has been cramped with inmates with jail doors that don't work and other security measures that are ineffective.

Now, according to the Huntsville Item, county commissioners will issue $20 million in certificates of obligation to fund a new jail.

Public meetings were held in March to let residents see and hear about the problems at the aging jail.

Commissioners passed on the option to renovate the current building because of costs and space issues.

The issue became a hot button topic after the escape of inmate Trent Archie in June 2011. Authorities said a better jail with a better layout would have likely prevented Archie's escape. He was later caught.