BERKELEY COUNTY, SC (WCSC) – Berkeley County aims to prevent courthouse resources from falling behind as the population grows at an unprecedented rate.

The county approved a $95 million contract to a plan to replace the courthouse first introduced in 2023.

The existing Moncks Corner building, located on California Avenue, was constructed in 1895. Despite expansion and renovation measures, the building failed to support the growth of the area.

In the county Global plan 2024leaders estimate it will have 400,000 residents by 2040.

“Having practiced law for 45 years, I have seen the influx of additional cases and the need for private in-house facilities. For attorneys, crime victims and advocates,” said council member and District 8 attorney Steve Davis. “There is a huge need.”

In the justice system, these challenges relate to the daily functions of clerks, judges and staff. The County wants to expand privacy and protections for court personnel and the community they serve.

The current courthouse has six courtrooms in total, three of which are reserved for jury trials. The new plan is under discussion, but Supervisor Johnny Cribb said it will be located at 17A.

The idea would be to create a 150,000 to 160,000 square foot space on one or two floors.

The old courthouse would become a hub for the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office. That would give the county the opportunity to expand the jail, which is overcrowded.

“We know we want to build a courthouse for the next 100 or 150 years, and the least expensive time to build it will be now,” Cribb said. “Who knows what technology will look like in 30, 40, 50 years? Will virtual hearings be the norm? This gives us a lot of room to adapt.

Leaders plan to be in the design and preparation phases for next year and at least two years to build the facility.

$40 million of the contract will be available, meaning the county will not need to borrow that portion. County leaders also add that taxes will not be increased due to the development.

Copyright 2024 WCSC. All rights reserved.