Final Beam Installed in Judicial Expansion in Lawrence

Lawrence, Kansas, August 21, 2025

News Summary

The Judicial and Law Enforcement Center in Lawrence has reached a significant milestone with the installation of the final beam in its expansion project. This addition will increase the facility’s capacity with new courtrooms, judges’ chambers, and enhanced sustainability features, including solar panels. Set to open soon, the expansion aims to improve judicial efficiency and community accessibility, while also being part of a larger initiative for public safety enhancements in Douglas County.

Final Beam Installed in Multimillion-Dollar Judicial and Law Enforcement Center Expansion in Lawrence, Kansas

The final beam for the Judicial and Law Enforcement Center (JLEC) addition was installed on August 20, 2025, marking a major milestone in a project located in downtown Lawrence near 11th and New Hampshire streets. The expansion is a multimillion-dollar project that will reshape the city’s courthouse and public safety facilities as part of Douglas County’s most ambitious capital improvements program to date.

The new addition will cover 158,075 square feet and will include six courtrooms, judges’ chambers, office space for District Court staff, and new holding areas for custody attendees. In line with sustainability goals, the design incorporates rooftop solar panels to help generate renewable power and reduce energy use across the facility’s operations.

Construction managers and the project team have emphasized steady progress toward a summer 2026 completion, with the building slated to open next summer. Following the expansion, renovations to the existing JLEC will commence in July 2026, featuring updates to three courtrooms, office spaces, and public areas such as the lobby and restrooms. Public services, including the Clerk of the District Court and the Douglas County Law Library, will be relocated closer to the main entrance to improve accessibility for visitors and staff.

Scope and location

• Location: downtown Lawrence, near 11th and New Hampshire streets
• Size: 158,075 square feet
• Facilities included: six courtrooms, judges’ chambers, staff offices, and custody holding areas
• Sustainability: rooftop solar panels

Timeline and future work

The JLEC expansion is expected to be completed by summer 2026, with an opening planned for the following summer. After the new spaces come online, renovations to the current JLEC will begin in July 2026, updating three courtrooms and public areas. The relocation of key public services aims to streamline access through the main entrance and improve visitor experiences.

Context within Douglas County capital improvements

The JLEC expansion is described as part of the largest capital improvement project in Douglas County history, alongside the construction of a new Public Safety Building adjacent to the Douglas County Correctional Facility. The combined initiatives reflect a broad effort to modernize public safety infrastructure and judicial facilities to serve the community for decades to come.

Milestones and community involvement

A topping-out ceremony celebrated the completion of the structural phase, with participation from community members and construction crews. A representative from the construction firm highlighted the workforce contribution, noting substantial person-hours dedicated to the project. A district-level judge underscored the project’s long-term value to residents. At the ceremony, attendees had the opportunity to sign the final beam prior to its installation. While weather and other factors presented challenges, project managers maintained a steady path toward progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the final beam installed?

The final beam for the JLEC expansion was installed on August 20, 2025, marking a milestone in the construction process.

How large is the new addition?

The addition will cover 158,075 square feet and will include six courtrooms, judges’ chambers, office space for District Court staff, and new holding areas for custody attendees.

What sustainability features are included?

Rooftop solar panels have been integrated into the design to support sustainability and energy efficiency for the building operations.

When is the expanded JLEC expected to be completed?

The JLEC expansion is slated for completion in the summer of 2026, with the new spaces expected to open next summer.

What renovations are planned after the expansion?

Renovations to the existing JLEC will begin in July 2026, including updates to three courtrooms, office spaces, and public areas such as the lobby and restrooms.

What changes are planned for public services?

Public services, including the Clerk of the District Court and the Douglas County Law Library, will be relocated closer to the main entrance to improve accessibility for the public.

How does this project fit into the county’s overall plan?

The expansion is part of the largest capital improvement project in Douglas County history and accompanies the construction of a new Public Safety Building near the Douglas County Correctional Facility, signaling a major modernization of public safety and judicial facilities.

Key features chart

Feature Area (sq ft) Courtrooms Rooftop Solar Projected Completion Topping-Out Date

Area 158,075 sq ft

Courtrooms 6

Rooftop Solar Yes

Projected Completion Summer 2026

Topping-Out Date Aug 20, 2025

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Additional Resources

• Lawrence Journal-World: JLEC Expansion Milestone
• Lawrence Times: Water Line Break JLEC
• Lawrence Times: JLEC Budget Discussion
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Judicial System
• Lawrence Journal-World: Driver Sentenced