Waller County officials told the Commissioners Court on Oct. 15 that the new courthouse grand opening is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Nov. 8, and that the county is finishing furniture, landscaping and systems work ahead of a phased move-in.

County facilities staff and the county engineer reported that fourth-floor furniture is largely installed, landscaping and parking lot striping are underway, and the county expects to run limited courts in the new courtroom on Nov. 12 and Nov. 19. Staff also said moving boxes will be provided for departments and that a professional cleaning by the contractors is scheduled before the opening.

On other facilities work, the county reported progress addressing moisture and heat issues at the jail and completing work on modular buildings used by the courts. Engineers identified gaps in wall and ceiling assemblies where hot air and moisture were tracking into ceilings above secure areas; crews will seal those gaps and add insulation and handrails where required. The county said the building contractor will cover warranty items such as failed window seals and that the generator is now online.

Why it matters: Commissioners and judges have cited lack of courtroom space as a primary driver of case delays. The new courthouse adds courtrooms and jury selection areas near the jail — a priority judges raised during the meeting — and county leaders said finishing the Third Floor buildout will follow within months.

Details: County staff said the planned furniture additions include jury seating in the new courtroom and outdoor employee seating for lunches. The county engineer reported that the Third Floor finish-out could take roughly six to eight months rather than the 18 months mentioned earlier in the meeting; staff said they expect substantial completion of additional courtroom space next summer.

Ending: Officials asked judges and department heads to coordinate moving dates and to flag any last-minute electrical or AV needs; staff will follow up with a detailed move schedule and change orders for limited furniture additions.