Centreville Courts Building Renovation: What You Need to Know

St. Joseph County has approved a renovation of the Centreville Courts Building, representing the first major update to the facility in more than 50 years. The project includes updates related to safety, building systems, space utilization, and court operations.

Overview

As the county seat for St. Joseph County, the Centreville Courts Building houses core court functions and public services. The renovation addresses building conditions, operational needs, and space limitations that have developed over time.

Project Scope

The renovation includes:

Safety & Security Updates

• Creation of a single, secure entry point for all visitors and employees
• Updated building access controls
• Secure sallyport for in-custody movement
• Fire alarm and life safety system upgrades

Building & System Improvements

• Replacement of aging mechanical and electrical systems
• Elevator modernization to meet current compliance standards
• Window and door replacement
• Brick repairs and exterior improvement

Interior & Operational Changes

• Reconfiguration of courtrooms and office spaces
• Updates to interior finishes
• Adjustments to improve workflow and public access

Background

Planning for improvements began nearly a decade ago. Multiple options were reviewed, including building additions and alternative locations in Centreville. These options were determined to be either cost-prohibitive or did not provide sufficient long-term space. The County had been leasing space in the former Three Rivers Library. When the full building became available, it was purchased in coordination with the City of Three Rivers. This provided approximately 28,000 square feet of additional space and allowed several departments to relocate, reducing space constraints in Centreville.

Approach

Based on prior evaluations, the County proceeded with a full renovation of the Courts Building. The project also includes updates that would have been required independently, such as elevator upgrades and system replacements. Addressing these items as part of a single project avoids multiple construction phases and repeated costs over time.

Project Cost & Funding

• Total project cost: approximately $12.4 million
• Bond financing: $5 million
• Interest rate: approximately 3.52%
• Remaining costs funded through existing County resources

Annual bond payments have been incorporated into the County’s financial planning. No tax increase is associated with this project.

Construction Timeline

• Start: late April  
• Duration: up to 18 months  

To support construction, operations have been temporarily relocated.

Temporary Department Moves

To allow construction to move more efficiently and safely, several departments have been relocated: 

Annex Building (155 S. Dean St., Centreville)

• Administration  
• Finance  
• Human Resources  
• Public Defender  
• District Court Probation  
• Facilities  

Training Center (612 E. Main St., Centreville)

• Equalization
• Community Corrections

Historic Courthouse

• District Court (3rd floor)
• Prosecutor’s Office (1st and 2nd floors)

Three Rivers Campus (920 W. Michigan Ave., Three Rivers)

• Circuit Court

These moves reduce disruption, improve safety during construction, and help keep court services operating. 

After Completion

The renovated building will include updated systems, reconfigured spaces, and a single public entry point.

Questions?

For more information, please contact the St. Joseph County Administrator’s Office.