For inmates who are close to being released from jail, the transition back into the community can be difficult. One Alachua County jail program aims to help them and save taxpayers money at the same time.

The Alachua County jail work squad was created in October 2007. The squad works three to four days a week on various projects. The Gainesville Regional Airport and the cities of High Springs and Waldo have all used the services.

More than $115,000 has been saved overall since the program started. Last month, the work squad's efforts saved the county more than $3800. Inmates who are close to their release dates and with non-violent offenses can try to get a spot.

"These guys are going to be home, they're going to be part of the community," said Eugene Martin, Alachua County Jail Bureau Chief for Inmate Affairs. "And it is our job as we work on our reentry program to get them prepared to get ready and better able to be successful once they are released from our custody."