Columbia County begins phase two of Building A: grading, new parking and department moves planned

Columbia County has begun phase two of work at its government complex, demolishing the former Building A and starting grading for new parking and a road intended to improve traffic flow, county officials said.

"The old Building A is gone and we've started grading the site," said Steven Prather, director of facility services for Columbia County. He said the county finished moving departments into the new Building A at the end of January and has begun site work that will add parking, green space between Buildings A and B, and a road that connects the other side of the campus toward Building C and the Justice Center.

County officials said the changes aim to ease congestion on campus and provide better access for visitors. "We have electronic signage out front directing people and traffic to where they need to go," Prather said, adding, "please give yourself extra time coming to the campus and the Justice Center to make sure you're parking in the right locations." He estimated the site work would be complete by midsummer.

The county also announced how vacated office space will be repurposed. Prather said Community Services will move from Building C into Building B; Risk Management and Technology Services will move into or expand in Building C to occupy space left by Finance. The county plans minor renovations such as painting before moving departments; Prather said those moves could begin in about a month and a half.

Prather described the work as part of a broader effort to consolidate operations and accommodate departmental growth: "...a better utilization of space for employees to work and operate." County staff urged the public to respect construction fencing and follow posted signage while the campus is under construction.

Host Hi Turner, the county's community engagement specialist, said the county will provide further updates and returned the program with a promise to check progress midsummer.