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BGS updates courthouse planning; Hartford renovation proceeds while Newport options remain under review
Summary
BGS presented planning updates for several courthouse projects. Hartford’s White River Junction renovation is underway with a construction-manager delivery; Newport planning continues as the department and local partners consider whether to combine two historic buildings or look for alternate sites.
Buildings and General Services told the Senate committee on Jan. 21 that courthouse projects are advancing at different stages: Hartford (White River Junction) is in active renovation with a construction-manager approach, while Newport remains in planning and property search phases.
On Hartford, BGS said water intrusion and failing window flashing required a tailored approach. Aja described a mitigation strategy that may avoid full exterior demolition by removing interior finishes, inserting rigid flashing above windows from inside, replacing windows and reinstalling insulation and finishes. Because of discoveries made during demolition, BGS said it selected a construction-manager contract with a guaranteed maximum price to allow the team to respond to unknown conditions while protecting state funds. Manoli noted that with a construction manager, unspent funds can return to the state and the manager’s early involvement can suggest cost-saving design changes.
On Newport, BGS said it has been pursuing properties and earlier studies that examined combining two historic courthouse structures into a single modernized facility. Senator remarks from the hearing indicated a local preference to keep courthouse functions downtown and to explore combining the two adjacent historic buildings rather than relocating to new land outside the core. Manoli said BGS will resume strategy discussions with the judiciary and local officials to decide whether to continue downtown planning or widen the search.
Senators were also briefed on the department’s use of planning funds and the need to coordinate court moves and temporary locations to keep proceedings on schedule. BGS said some projects are constrained by limited swing space, making schedules important.
Ending: BGS said it will continue designing Hartford’s renovation under the selected delivery method and will reconvene with judges and local partners on Newport to identify next steps and preferred alternatives for a downtown solution or relocation.
