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Architect lays out two courthouse-addition options, estimates roughly $2 -$3 million cost
Summary
Design consultants presented two conceptual addition options to address accessibility and security at the historic Hillsdale County courthouse, each about 6,000 sq ft in total and, at a preliminary $500/sq ft estimate, "landing real close to that $3 million," the architect said. Commissioners asked for diagrams and a follow-up Q&A.
The Hillsdale County Board of Commissioners received a conceptual presentation from design consultants outlining two schematic approaches to add public and secured spaces to the historic county courthouse.
Jeremy, a project presenter, and Jason Potsman of Express Architecture described two options: one that expands on the parking-lot side and another that builds on a grassy park side. Both schemes were similar in size (roughly 6,000 square feet total with about 4,000 square feet on a primary floor and an additional upper level). Using a high-level planning figure of about $500 per square foot, the consultant said the design would be "landing real close to that $3 million" in conceptual costs and noted historic materials and detailing would raise costs further.
The designs aim to improve security and public flow by creating a single controlled entrance and adding staff-only circulation that connects to the existing court areas. The presenter noted accessibility challenges because much of the courthouse first floor is elevated nearly 9 feet above grade, and recommended a new elevator and an approach that avoids making major structural openings in the historic walls.
Commissioners did not act on funding or a preferred alternative but asked for the detailed floor diagrams. "I'll send that out everything to you, Commissioner Angles, is that correct? And then you can distribute," the consultant said; commissioners agreed to review the drawings and schedule a follow-up session for in-depth questions.
What happens next: Staff and the architect will circulate the detailed diagrams for commissioner review. The consultant recommended allowing time for the board and staff to evaluate parking impacts, accessibility options and historic-preservation costs before selecting a preferred scheme and developing a budget.
Speakers quoted: Jeremy (presenter), Jason Potsman (Express Architecture).
