Courthouse’s South Tower Opens (PHOTOS & VIDEO)
Montgomery County officials are celebrating the official opening of the Circuit Courthouse’s south tower, which includes ten, state-of-the-art courtrooms, eight hearing rooms, mediation facilities and offices.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the six-story south tower was held on May 15 in Rockville. The new building is located at the intersection of Jefferson Street and Maryland Avenue.
“Since the Red Brick courthouse was built 120 years ago, Rockville has been the hub of our area’s court system and the south tower of the Montgomery County Circuit Court will help continue that tradition into the 21st century,” said Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett. “The new courtrooms, space to house the Juvenile and Family divisions, and room for expansion will ensure that our judicial system is ready to meet future demands. I’m very proud that this new building is only the fourth court[house] in the country to meet Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards.”
Administrative Judge John Debelius said the south tower will provide better and more efficient services to the residents of Montgomery County.
“The need for additional courthouse space is urgent,” Debelius said. “Being able to consolidate our courtrooms and services in one secure, centralized location will be a great enhancement for the community.”
Circuit Court Clerk Loretta Knight, who has worked at the courthouse for three decades, agrees wholeheartedly. She said employees moved into their beautiful new surroundings just two weeks ago and they are still smiling. She said efficiency and productivity are also on the rise and she noted their work is to serve the public.
County Councilmember Phil Andrews, who chairs the Public Safety Committee, said the new building was sorely needed for our growing county of a million plus residents, especially in regard to the Juvenile and Family Divisions.
County officials said this project was delivered on time and on budget. The cost for this project is $140 million. Outside the tower, construction continues on the Memorial Walkway, which will include a water fountain, trees and benches. That work is expected to be complete by July 4.
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