Judicial Center expansion underway

Project will add 133,000 square feet & seven new courtrooms

Hamilton County officials broke ground Monday morning, May 11, on a long-anticipated expansion of the Hamilton County Judicial Center in downtown Noblesville. The $70 million project will add 133,000 square feet to the existing facility, including seven new courtrooms, upgraded security, and expanded public space.

Superior Court 5 Judge David Najjar speaks to the crowd on behalf of his fellow judges. (Reporter photo)

Reporter photo

County officials, judges, and project partners gathered on the west lawn of the Judicial Center to mark the beginning of construction on the three-story addition, which will consolidate multiple county offices and provide room for future growth. The first floor will eventually house county offices, while the second floor will serve as the new home for additional courtrooms. The third floor will remain unfinished for future buildout as caseloads continue to rise.

“This expansion is really about keeping up with the people we serve,” Superior Court 2 Judge Jon Brown said. “Hamilton County’s population has exploded, and our court dockets have grown right along with it. We’re seeing routine hearings being delayed for months. This new space will help us move cases more efficiently and give our judges, staff, and citizens the resources they deserve.”

Built in 1992, the current Judicial Center has been remodeled several times to accommodate new staff and departments, but post-pandemic case filings have pushed the courts well beyond their intended capacity. Once completed, the expansion will also support newly elected judges who take office in 2027.

(From left) County Commissioners Mark Heirbrandt, Christine Altman, and Steve Dillinger. (Photo provided)

Hamilton County Commissioners President Christine Altman said the County is continuing to work closely with the City of Noblesville to manage the impact of multiple projects taking place downtown over the next two years.

“Our goal is to make progress without getting in the way,” Altman said. “We’re coordinating closely with the city to align schedules, stage construction trailers and equipment offsite, and keep as much parking and pedestrian access open as possible. We want to minimize disruption for businesses and residents.”

Envoy is the builder for this project, which has an expected completion of late 2028.

Photo provided

(From left) County Councilors Sue Maki, Tim Griffin, and Brad Beaver, Commissioners Altman, Heirbrandt, and Dillinger, and Councilors Mark Hall and Ken Alexander. (Photo provided)