Harrison County Officials Seek Bids to Restore Courthouse Garage
Harrison County officials are currently accepting bids to restore the county courthouse garage, which has been closed since November 2024. The closure came after officials noticed concrete in certain areas of the garage beginning to crumble. This issue has raised concerns about the structural integrity of the building and the safety of those who use it.
Harrison County engineer Jaclyn Turner explained that the problems stem from the natural behavior of concrete when exposed to extreme temperature changes. She noted that the garage is not entirely unsafe but is closed as a precautionary measure to prevent potential damage to vehicles or harm to individuals.
Turner emphasized that while there are structural issues to address, the primary reason for the closure is to avoid further complications. “In a typical concrete garage, annual maintenance includes checking for cracks and other signs of wear,” she said. “Over the years, this maintenance hasn’t been as thorough as it should have been.”
The lack of available parking at the courthouse has led to significant challenges for residents and visitors. With the garage closed, parking spaces near the courthouse fill up quickly, forcing people to park farther away and walk several blocks. While the distance may not seem excessive, the inconvenience becomes more pronounced during the summer months when the heat makes walking uncomfortable.
Carmen Carew, a Harrison County resident, shared her experience of having to park two blocks away on the opposite side of the road just to obtain her marriage license. “I have to walk so far every time. Everyone else does too,” she said. “It’s frustrating that such a large facility isn’t being used when people need it daily for various reasons.”
Turner acknowledged the public’s frustration but assured them that the project is progressing without delays. She stressed that the county is committed to addressing all issues and following proper procedures to ensure the garage is safe and functional. “Once the garage is open, it will provide much-needed space for people to rotate in and out without having to walk long distances,” she said.
The county hopes to select a bid soon and complete the necessary paperwork. If everything goes smoothly, the garage could be reopened in the spring of 2026. This timeline allows for sufficient time to handle repairs and ensure that the facility meets all safety standards.
Residents like Carew are eager for the garage to reopen, as they believe it will significantly improve their experience when visiting the courthouse. The effort to restore the garage reflects the county’s commitment to maintaining infrastructure and providing convenient services to the community.
As the process moves forward, officials remain focused on delivering a safe and functional space that meets the needs of residents and visitors alike. The hope is that the restoration of the courthouse garage will ultimately reduce the burden on those who rely on it for daily activities.
