Courthouse elevator repairs begin modernization efforts Monday

Beginning Monday, visitors to the Comanche County Courthouse will have some decisions to make when going to any floors besides the ground floor of the five-story building: wait for a ride in the elevator or take the stairs.

For the next 26 weeks, according to expectations, a modernization effort will be underway to enhance accessibility and safety at the courthouse, 315 SW 5th, according to Corinne Owensby, Chief Deputy for Comanche County Commissioner District No. 2 Johnny Owens. Owens was unavailable for comment.

While the upgrades are underway, there will only be one elevator available.

The goal is to ensure improved functionality and reliability for all visitors and staff, according to Owensby.

American Elevator was awarded the bid in the amount of $799,500, to be paid from American Rescue Plan Act funds (ARPA), Owensby said.

This project will involve the sequential upgrade of both elevators within the courthouse.

Owens recognized the importance of maintaining accessibility during this period and has assured residents that measures will be in place to minimize inconvenience, Owensby said. Additionally, efforts will be made to expedite the project timeline wherever possible to ensure minimal disruption.

Owensby said the bid for this project was awarded last year. The project’s beginning coincides with the first week of the felony jury trial docket. She said it will be up to the judges’ discretion regarding breaks due to the number of people in need of the elevators’ usage. It will effect two more sessions this year, according to the timeline.

“This was the earliest they were able to begin the modernization, which happened to fall during jury docket,” she said. “Due to the length of time it will take to complete the project, there would not be a time that it would not fall during a jury docket.”

The elevator upgrades represent a proactive approach by Comanche County to modernize its infrastructure and provide enhanced services to residents and visitors alike, Owensby said.

For more information or inquiries regarding the elevator upgrade project at the Comanche County Courthouse, contact the Comanche County Commissioner’s Office, 580-353-3717.