SPI Insights

The Texas Historical Commission approved more than $20.03 million in state grants for the full restoration, planning of renovations, or emergency projects at nine county courthouses on June 17.

Taylor County will receive $5.98 million to restore its 1915 three-story brick courthouse by removing a non-historic addition, above-grade utilities, and asphalt that currently extends to the edge of the building.

The county also will restore the courthouse’s original concrete walks and landscaping, clean and repoint brick, reconstruct concrete steps and landings, and replace the roof. Estimated project cost is $14.96 million for the full interior and exterior restoration.

The county plans to install a new accessible security entrance, a new elevator, and egress stair, as well as restore historic finishes throughout the building. The building also will undergo full replacement of outdated mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, and the installation of security and audio-visual components.

Callahan County will get $4.68 million in state grants for the full restoration of its courthouse, which is estimated to cost $9.83 million.

Work will involve the removal of an asphalt parking lot, improvement of site drainage and the re-establishment of the courthouse square perimeter with a new drive and the burial of electrical lines, including the repair of sewage lines and drainage. Masonry and terracotta restoration, and the removal of an elevator tower will restore the exterior. Restoration of original light fixtures and interior finishes, including a unique acoustic tile ceiling in the district courtroom, along with the removal of non-original wood paneling and suspended ceilings, will complete the project.

Mason County was awarded a $4.14 million grant for the full restoration of its county courthouse. The estimated project cost is $4.99 million and will include a full exterior restoration of masonry, roofing, doors, windows, hazardous materials abatement, replacement of outdated mechanical and electrical systems, and the installation of a fire detection and notification system. Historic finishes throughout the building will be restored to their original appearance.

Wise, Washington, Kimble, and Willacy counties received courthouse planning grants from the Historical Commission, and Lee and Duval counties were awarded emergency grants totaling $1.97 million and $580,231, respectively.