Adams County commissioners advanced the long‑planned Justice Center project during their Tuesday, September 22 meeting, approving two architectural agreements and outlining upcoming site work and regulatory steps.
The board first voted to accept an agreement with Elevatus Architecture for renovations to the county courthouse. The plan includes installing the circuit and superior courts inside the existing building and making broader updates throughout the facility. Commissioners approved the contract unanimously after noting that some cost‑estimate requirements had been removed from earlier drafts.
A second Elevatus agreement—covering construction of a new judicial annex north of the Superior Court’s Carnegie Library building—was also approved. Commissioners emphasized that while the intended site remains north of the current facility, its final placement depends on parking negotiations and required Board of Zoning Appeals variances. They said the building “will be built,” but its exact location could shift if parking requirements cannot be met.
County engineer Nate reported that the Justice Center’s geotechnical drilling is scheduled for September 30. He said the public parking lot at the site will be closed for the day while crews take soil samples. “There’ll be a drill rig out there,” he told commissioners, adding that notices will be mailed to nearby residents.
He also confirmed that GME Testing has expanded its contract to include an asbestos‑containing materials survey for the courthouse. The added work costs $4,850 and will help identify any hazards contractors must be notified about before renovation begins.
Commissioners heard updates on technology planning as well. A recent meeting between county IT staff, the architect, and electrical engineers reviewed server closets, battery backups, and potential cost‑saving measures. Nate said the group identified workable spaces for equipment and clarified several construction‑related needs.
The county has also begun coordinating with the Decatur Plan Commission to prepare for required zoning variances. Parking is expected to be a central issue. Nate said the county will consolidate parcels to avoid complications and will seek all needed variances in a single filing to prevent delays.
Five construction‑management firms have requested the county’s RFQ documents, and an addendum will be issued this week. Nate said he has received few questions from bidders and believes the county’s materials were clear.
Commissioners praised the project team’s coordination, saying the collaboration between the owners’ representative and architect has been strong.