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Commissioners approve schematic design, $58.0M schematic budget for Civil Courts Building remodel
Summary
The Denton County Commissioners Court approved a schematic design package for the planned remodel of the purchased Sally Beauty office building into a Civil Courts Building and authorized the architect HOK to proceed to design development. The schematic estimate places the project total at about $58.0 million.
The Denton County Commissioners Court on Sept. 16 approved a schematic design package and authorized HOK to proceed to the design‑development phase for the conversion of the former Sally Beauty office building into the county’s Civil Courts Building.
The schematic design budget presented to the court shows a construction cost subtotal of $54,744,828 and a project total of $58,010,448. “Cost of work subtotal is currently at $48,446,750,” the architect’s project manager, Rory Villanueva of HOK, told the court during a presentation of the floor plans and program.
Commissioner Falconer described the plan as a cost‑effective alternative to new construction, saying the county would save “tens of millions of dollars” compared with building new court facilities. The schematic set out new public circulation, secure staff circulation, nine courtrooms, multiple hearing rooms and improved judge and jury circulation. The plan also calls for a new elevator connecting Floors 2 through 5 and a new public stair to meet occupancy and egress requirements.
The court authorized HOK to proceed to design development by motion of Commissioner Williams, seconded by Commissioner Falconer; the motion passed unanimously. Presenters said the team will begin design development immediately and aim for a late‑summer 2027 occupancy for the remodeled building, while noting timelines remain estimates.
County staff and the construction manager at risk provided the schematic cost estimate. Officials said the county will also pursue interim, lower‑cost improvements to existing facilities to create capacity while the Civil Courts project proceeds.
Motion: Approve schematic design package for Civil Courts Building and authorize HOK to proceed to design development. Motion by: Commissioner Williams. Second by: Commissioner Falconer. Outcome: Approved unanimously.
