St. Clair Correctional Facility Overview

St. Clair Correctional Facility is a maximum-security prison located in Springville, Alabama. Built in 1983, it is one of the largest correctional institutions in the state, designed to house up to 1,514 inmates. The facility holds male prisoners, primarily those convicted of violent crimes such as murder and assault, making it one of the most dangerous prisons in Alabama. Throughout its history, St. Clair Correctional Facility has faced challenges with overcrowding, violence, and understaffing, leading to several high-profile lawsuits and investigations.

The prison has a range of programs aimed at rehabilitation, including educational and vocational training. Inmates have opportunities to earn their GED and receive job training in fields such as vehicle restoration and chemical manufacturing through partnerships with Alabama Correctional Industries and Gadsden State Community College.

St. Clair Correctional Facility

St. Clair Correctional Facility Contact Information

  • Address: 1000 St. Clair Road, Springville, AL 35146
  • Telephone: (205) 467-6111
  • Email: Not available publicly. Refer to the Alabama Department of Corrections for more information.

Visiting Information at St. Clair Correctional Facility

Visiting inmates at St. Clair Correctional Facility is permitted on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Federal holidays also follow the same visiting hours. Visitors are required to complete a visitation application before scheduling a visit. When attending, you must adhere to the strict dress code, which prohibits items like see-through fabric, clothing with offensive images, or attire that is too tight.

Visits typically last several hours, depending on the inmate’s behavior and security needs, and are closely monitored. There are thorough security checks, including metal detectors and pat searches, before entering the visiting area.

What to Bring for a Visit

  • A valid government-issued ID
  • Appropriate clothing as per facility guidelines
  • Funds if you plan to purchase snacks for the inmate from the vending machines
  • Only a limited number of personal items, as excessive belongings may be denied entry

How to Book a Visit at St. Clair Correctional Facility

To book a visit at St. Clair Correctional Facility, you must first complete a visitation application, which is available on the Alabama Department of Corrections website. Once approved, you can schedule visits based on availability, typically during weekends and holidays. You’ll need to provide identification details and proof of relationship to the inmate during the booking process.

 

Directions and Parking for St. Clair Correctional Facility

St. Clair Correctional Facility is situated on a 600-acre site at 1000 St. Clair Road, south of Interstate 59 in Springville, Alabama. It is easily accessible by car from U.S. Highway 411. The facility has parking available for visitors, but spaces can fill up quickly during peak visiting hours, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early to secure a parking spot and avoid delays at security checkpoints.

 

Life Inside St. Clair Correctional Facility

For inmates, life at St. Clair Correctional Facility can be harsh. The facility has been plagued by high levels of violence, including assaults and homicides. In recent years, federal investigations and lawsuits have targeted the prison’s conditions, particularly regarding overcrowding and understaffing, which contribute to frequent incidents of violence. Despite this, inmates have access to a range of programs aimed at improving their education and employability. Rehabilitation programs include academic classes, vocational training, and addiction counseling, but these services are often overshadowed by the dangerous environment.

 

Famous Prisoners at St. Clair Correctional Facility

Several notorious inmates have been housed at St. Clair Correctional Facility, including:

  • Thomas Blanton and Robert Chambliss, convicted for their involvement in the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham.
  • Melvin Ray, a leader of the Free Alabama Movement, an advocacy group for prisoner rights.
  • J.B. Stoner, known for his involvement in the 1958 Bethel Baptist Church bombing.

FAQs About St. Clair Correctional Facility

  • Where is St. Clair Correctional Facility located?
    St. Clair Correctional Facility is located at 1000 St. Clair Road, Springville, AL 35146.

  • What type of inmates does St. Clair Correctional Facility hold?
    The facility houses male inmates, primarily those convicted of violent crimes, in a maximum-security environment.

  • What are the visiting hours at St. Clair Correctional Facility?
    Visiting hours are Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

  • How can I send money to an inmate at St. Clair Correctional Facility?
    You can send money through services like JPay, which allows family members to transfer funds electronically.

  • Is St. Clair Correctional Facility a maximum-security prison?
    Yes, it is a maximum-security prison designed to house some of Alabama’s most dangerous inmates.

  • How do I contact an inmate at St. Clair Correctional Facility?
    Inmates can make collect calls to approved family and friends, but they cannot receive calls.

  • What programs are available for inmates at St. Clair Correctional Facility?
    The facility offers educational programs, including GED and vocational training, through partnerships with local organizations.

  • How dangerous is St. Clair Correctional Facility?
    St. Clair Correctional Facility is known for its high levels of violence and has been the subject of multiple lawsuits regarding its dangerous conditions.

  • How do I book a visit at St. Clair Correctional Facility?
    Visitors must complete an application available on the Alabama Department of Corrections website and schedule visits based on approval.

  • Who are some famous inmates at St. Clair Correctional Facility?
    Notable inmates include Thomas Blanton and Robert Chambliss, convicted for their roles in the 1963 Birmingham church bombing.

Conclusion

St. Clair Correctional Facility remains one of Alabama’s most notorious prisons, holding a mix of violent offenders and offering some rehabilitative programs despite ongoing concerns about inmate safety and prison conditions. Those interested in learning more can visit the Alabama Department of Corrections website.


Research URLs: