Final Beam Installed in Judicial Expansion in Lawrence

Lawrence, Kansas, August 21, 2025

News Summary

The Judicial and Law Enforcement Center in Lawrence has reached a significant milestone with the installation of the final beam in its expansion project. This addition will increase the facility’s capacity with new courtrooms, judges’ chambers, and enhanced sustainability features, including solar panels. Set to open soon, the expansion aims to improve judicial efficiency and community accessibility, while also being part of a larger initiative for public safety enhancements in Douglas County.

Final beam installed marks milestone in Lawrence JLEC expansion

On August 20, 2025, the final beam for the Judicial and Law Enforcement Center (JLEC) addition was installed, signaling a major milestone in the downtown project located near 11th and New Hampshire streets. The expansion is a multimillion-dollar project that will add 158,075 square feet of new space and includes six courtrooms, judges’ chambers, office space for District Court staff, and new holding areas for custody attendees.

The design incorporates sustainability features, including rooftop solar panels, as part of a broader effort to improve energy efficiency in public facilities. The project is scheduled for completion by summer 2026, with an anticipated opening next summer.

Project scope and facilities

The addition will cover 158,075 square feet and will house six courtrooms, judges’ chambers, office space for District Court staff, and new holding areas for custody attendees. Rooftop solar panels are included in the design to enhance sustainability for this state and county facility.

Location, renovations, and accessibility

The project sits in downtown Lawrence, with renovations to the existing JLEC planned to begin in July 2026. Renovations will update three courtrooms, office spaces, and public areas such as the lobby and restrooms. Public services, including the Clerk of the District Court and the Douglas County Law Library, will be relocated closer to the main entrance to improve accessibility for visitors.

Context within county plans

The JLEC expansion is part of the largest capital improvement project in Douglas County history, alongside the construction of a new Public Safety Building next to the Douglas County Correctional Facility. A topping-out ceremony was held to mark the completion of the structural phase, drawing community members and members of the construction team from JE Dunn Construction.

Milestones and workforce effort

Project leaders highlighted the effort of the workforce, noting more than 30,000 person-hours devoted to the project. A District Court Judge emphasized the project’s role in serving the community for decades to come. Attendees at the ceremony had the opportunity to sign the final beam before it was hoisted into place. While the project has faced weather-related challenges and other factors, those managing the construction have maintained progress toward milestones.

Operational and openings timeline

The JLEC addition is expected to open next summer, following a completion target of summer 2026, with renovations to the existing building beginning in July 2026. Public services relocation aims to streamline access for visitors from the main entrance, improving the overall experience for courthouse users.

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Frequently asked questions

• What does the JLEC expansion include? The project adds 158,075 square feet of new space, including six courtrooms, judges’ chambers, office space for District Court staff, and new custody holding areas, along with rooftop solar panels for sustainability.
• When is the expansion expected to be completed? The addition is slated for completion by summer 2026, with an opening anticipated next summer.
• When will renovations to the existing JLEC begin? Renovations to the existing building will begin in July 2026 and include updates to three courtrooms, office spaces, and public areas such as the lobby and restrooms.
• What other major projects are part of the same capital improvement program? The JLEC expansion is part of the largest capital improvement effort in Douglas County history, alongside the construction of a new Public Safety Building adjacent to the Douglas County Correctional Facility.
• What is the purpose of the topping-out ceremony? The topping-out ceremony marks the completion of the structural phase of the project and recognizes the contributions of workers and community participants.

Key features at a glance

Total expansion size (sf) 158,075

Courtrooms 6

Rooftop solar (panels) Yes

Estimated completion Summer 2026

Public services relocation Yes

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Additional Resources

• Lawrence Journal-World: JLEC Expansion Milestone
• Lawrence Times: Water Line Break JLEC
• Lawrence Times: JLEC Budget Discussion
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Judicial System
• Lawrence Journal-World: Driver Sentenced