Renovations Underway at Greenwood County Courthouse

News Summary

Greenwood County is preparing for significant renovations at the Courthouse, set to complete by early 2025. Key offices like probation and parole will relocate to the updated basement, enhancing accessibility and services. Additionally, Park Plaza is undergoing design changes to streamline county operations. This $15 million project aims to improve public experience and consolidate judicial services in the community.

Exciting Changes on the Horizon for Greenwood County Courthouse

As the folks in Greenwood County gear up for a bright new year, they’re also anticipating some big changes at the Greenwood County Courthouse. With a forecast of abundant sunshine, a high of 56°F and a gentle breeze from the west, it seems the weather is just as bright as the future of the courthouse! Construction is buzzing as renovations roll into full swing with plans to relocate several offices by early 2025.

What’s Happening at the Courthouse?

The renovation buzz started back at the end of summer when work began in the courthouse basement. Now, county engineers report that all major work is on track, with framing, electrical, and sheetrock installation already completed. Facilities Management is right on top of everything, keeping a watchful eye on the progress.

Right now, the team is focused on those finishing touches, which include installing ceilings, painting walls, and adding countertops. The renovations are expected to wrap up by early March 2025, at which point several important offices will be making a big move to the courthouse basement. Among those relocating are the offices for probation and parole, the public defender, the victim’s assistant, and even the coroner’s office.

Looking Beyond the Courthouse

But that’s not all! There’s also exciting news on the renovation front for Park Plaza. The county is currently in the design phase, with architects and contractors working collaboratively to ensure everything goes smoothly. This is all part of a larger plan to enhance accessibility and streamline county services for the public.

When the Park Plaza renovations are completed, departments like planning, building, and engineering will move back to their original home at Park Plaza, while EMS and fire services will remain at the Airport Annex, which is a new acquisition. The recently obtained Airport Annex, located at 1025 Deadfall Road E., cost a total of $800,000 plus $140,000 for renovations.

Bringing it All Together

This ambitious renovation project comes with a price tag of approximately $15 million, and while the completion timeline is still in the works, the hope is to finish everything by summer 2026. It’s important to note that these renovations are not just about repairs; they aim to solve space issues and make the public experience much better.

For the time being, the county offices located in Park Plaza will temporarily relocate starting September 16, 2025, as phase two of the renovations takes flight. As plans come together, updates will flow from the county to ensure everyone is in the loop about the progress and upcoming office relocations.

What’s Next for Your Courthouse?

In essence, the Greenwood County Courthouse is on track to become a centralized judicial center that will house all necessary court functions under one roof. With the current courthouse established in 1967 and Park Plaza dating back to the early ‘70s, these renovations are not just timely but critical for accommodating the needs of the community.

So as we step into 2025, keep your eyes peeled for more updates about these exciting changes that are designed to enhance the public’s experience and keep our county services smooth and efficient!