Waukesha County Courthouse Remodeling Project FAQ
What is the Waukesha County Courthouse project?
Waukesha County is undertaking a four-year remodeling project to modernize the courthouse and improve safety, security, efficiency, and public access.
Why is this project needed?
The courthouse, built in 1959 when the population of Waukesha County was roughly 150,000 residents, serves as a central public building for justice and county operations. The project is intended to update the facility to better meet today’s standards for security, functionality, and customer service for the more than 415,000 people that call Waukesha County home.
What has already been completed?
The first major step of the overall courthouse project was the construction of the four-story secure courts tower that houses eight modern courtrooms.
What is happening now?
In 2023, the County moved into the remodeling phase, which will transform key public and operational areas inside the courthouse.
Beginning June 29, the public entrance to the courthouse will close and shift to a temporary entrance located to the east of the courthouse at the Administration Center.
How long will the project take?
The remodeling project is expected to take four years and finish in 2027.
What are the main goals of the project?
The project is designed to:
- Enhance public and staff safety
- Improve security operations
- Modernize the courthouse interior and exterior of the public entrance
- Improve customer service and wayfinding
- Create a more efficient and user-friendly public building
What are the major safety improvements?
A central feature of the remodel is three-way separation within the courthouse. This will create distinct circulation and holding areas for:
- Staff
- The public
- Prisoners
This design is intended to reduce unnecessary contact and improve overall courthouse safety.
How will the public benefit?
The public can expect:
- A safer and more secure courthouse
- Easier navigation inside the building
- Improved access and customer experience
- Updated public-facing spaces designed for long-term use
What new features are planned?
By late 2026, the project is expected to include:
- A new, secure public entrance
- An upgraded interior security area and lobby
- A new County Boardroom
What is the total project cost?
The total cost of the Phase II project is approximately $115 million.
How is the project being funded?
The project is being funded by a mix of county tax levy, federal grant dollars, and general obligation debt. Unlike most governments though, Waukesha County has taken a conservative approach to pay for the courthouse project by breaking the large project down into smaller phases that allow the county to better manage project costs. The county debt is being financed with a 20% down payment, and each bond will be fully paid off in 10 years or less, meaning that future property taxpayers will not be on the hook for decades of borrowing costs.
Who has been involved in the planning?
The planning process has involved architects, engineers, and county officials, including project partners at Gilbane.
Why is this project important for the community?
County leaders describe the project as a generational investment in public safety, courthouse operations, and the long-term service of residents. The goal is to ensure the courthouse remains a safe, effective, and welcoming public institution for decades to come.
Will the public be able to see what the finished project will look like?
Yes. Project renderings show plans for the front entrance and security lobby offering a preview of the updated courthouse improvements.
