First almost-blank subframe, ABS, information regarding multiple subframes, SFs, is received at an underlying access point, AP, from an overlaying AP, wherein the first ABS information includes an identification of mandatory ABS(s) in the multiple SFs. Second ABS information regarding the multiple SFs is received at the underlying AP from the overlaying AP. The second information includes an identification of optional ABS(s) in the multiple SFs. The optional ABS(s) are to be used as one of normal SFs or mandatory ABSs. The multiple SFs for the underlying cell are scheduled based on whether the optional ABS(s) is to be used as an ABS. Mandatory and optional ABSs in multiple subframes are scheduled at an overlaying AP. First ABS information, including an identification of mandatory ABS(s), is sent to an underlying AP. Second ABS information, including identification of optional ABS(s) in the subframes, is sent to the underlying AP.