Federal Building and US Courthouse Restoration

Built in 1892, the Federal Courthouse was originally designed in a Richardsonian Romanesque style. Previous renovations and additions had not considered this style, and the building had lost much of its historical appeal. Federal courtrooms, justice department offi ces and secret service areas were renovated in consultation with the State Historical Society and federal historic preservation guidelines. Two district courtrooms were expanded into upper fl oors without the use of columns and renovated so as to blend with the older areas of the building better. Technology upgrades were made in the courtroom, including the addition of computer screens to the jury box, judge’s bench and lawyers’ tables to allow for distance testimony.