On Tuesday, Porter
County officials held a ceremonial groundbreaking for repairs and renovation
of the Courthouse in downtown Valparaiso.
Built in the
1830’s, the Courthouse stands on land that was first designated as a public
square in the original land grant by the State of Indiana to Porter County,
when the county was incorporated.
“Our Courthouse is
the most iconic landmark in Porter County,” said Porter County Commissioner
Jeff Good. “The work that we are doing now to restore, repair, renovate and
preserve this historical treasure will assure that it will last for decades
to come.”
Phase one of the
project began earlier this summer, including the replacement of all windows,
the cleaning and repair of the exterior masonry, and ornamentals.
Phase two of the
project will encompass the redesign of the Courthouse grounds, adding
secured parking for Judges, and renovation of interior common spaces
including bathrooms. These renovations will also assure that building and
courts are accessible to people with disabilities.
“The courthouse is
an iconic symbol of government and public order. Many generations of
Hoosiers and others, going back to the time of the Civil War, have tread the
grounds of our courthouse,” said the Mary Harper, Judge of the Superior
Court. “It is a wonderful commitment by the Porter County Commissioners and
our County Council, together with the citizens of our community, to maintain
this symbol of justice.”