Columbus has ended plans to construct a new Franklin County Municipal Court in downtown Columbus, citing increasing costs and a tight city budget.
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther's office said in a statement Wednesday that it is ending ongoing construction and will put money towards renovating the current building across the street, rather than building a new facility.
"Current economic conditions have challenged the city and Columbus households alike, and investing in neighborhoods has, and will always be, my first priority," Ginther said in the statement.
Ginther said the cost to build a new courthouse "ballooned" from $200 million in 2018 to more than $335 million today. The plan approved by the Columbus Downtown Commission called for an eight-story, 340,000 square-foot facility, connected to the current government building structures by a skywalk.
"It’s clear to me that the responsible thing to do is to reconsider how we deliver modern and safe court operations. A renovation will serve the court well, and also free up at least $75 million to invest in sidewalks, parks, recreation centers, safe streets and police and fire equipment to make every resident safer, healthier and more connected to our community," Ginther said.
Voters passed a $250-million bond issue in November, $100 million of which was earmarked to build a new courthouse.
A spokesperson for the court said they were notified by the city of this decision this week.
"The court has invested significant time, staff effort, and resources into this project over the past several years. The Court is deeply disappointed in this decision but will continue to work with the City on next steps, including the proposed renovation of 375 South High Street and the Karnes Building," the statement said.
The Dorrian Commons, where the court was proposed to be built, has been fenced off for years. Work began on the project in March.
