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 Judicial and Law Enforcement Center Expansion in Lawrence, Kansas

The construction of the expanded Judicial and Law Enforcement Center (JLEC) in downtown Lawrence reached a notable milestone with the installation of the final beam on August 20, 2025. This significant step marks progress in what is dubbed a multimillion-dollar project, located near 11th and New Hampshire streets, that aims to modernize legal and law enforcement facilities in the area.

This expansion will add an impressive 158,075 square feet of space, which will include six courtrooms, judges’ chambers, and essential office areas for District Court staff. Furthermore, the project includes upgraded holding areas for custody attendees, ensuring that the center meets contemporary operational needs.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the new structure will also feature rooftop solar panels, contributing to eco-friendly energy solutions for the facility. The completion of this substantial addition is anticipated by summer 2026, promising an operational launch shortly afterward.

In July 2026, after the new addition opens, renovations to the existing JLEC will commence. These upgrades will focus on enhancing three courtrooms, office spaces, and public areas, including the lobby and restrooms. Additionally, the public services provided by the Clerk of the District Court and the Douglas County Law Library will be relocated to positions closer to the main entrance to improve accessibility for all visitors.

This expansion is a part of the largest capital improvement project in Douglas County’s history, which also involves the construction of a new Public Safety Building adjacent to the Douglas County Correctional Facility. This ambitious undertaking emphasizes the county’s commitment to enhancing public safety and judicial services.

To celebrate the completion of the structural phase, a topping-out ceremony was held, attended by community members and employees of JE Dunn Construction, the firm overseeing the project. As part of this tradition, attendees had the unique opportunity to sign the final beam before it was hoisted into place, symbolizing community support and investment in the future.

During the ceremony, a representative from JE Dunn Construction highlighted the importance of the construction workers, emphasizing the team’s dedication and hard work that accumulated over 30,000 person-hours throughout the project. A District Court Judge also discussed the long-term benefits the facility will provide to the community, projecting its ability to serve for decades to come.

The ongoing construction has not been without its challenges, including weather delays and other unforeseen obstacles. However, those managing the project have remained focused on maintaining progress and adhering to timelines, ensuring the JLEC expansion remains on track for completion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Key Features of JLEC Expansion

Feature	Details
Total Area	158,075 square feet
New Courtrooms	Six courtrooms
Judges’ Chambers	Yes
Office Space	For District Court staff
Holding Areas	New and upgraded holding areas
Completion Date	Summer 2026
Sustainability Features	Rooftop solar panels

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