KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Kalamazoo County Commissioners got a closer look at plans for the largest local construction project they have ever undertaken Tuesday night.
If all goes as scheduled, bids will be sought for the construction of the new $90-million dollar Criminal Justice Center in January, with groundbreaking tentatively planned for early April.
County Construction Manager Jerry Vanderveen says the project will give a much needed lift to the local economy. Their mandate is to hire as many local construction firms and workers as possible.
(Photo courtesy of Kalamazoo County Government)
He says he has heard from a number of firms who have taken a hit because of the pandemic, and can use the work.
Their goal is to build a structure that will not only give the courts and the prosecutor a lot more room but a lot more light as well. Architects described a design that will include a central light well which will bring natural light to every floor and many of the courtrooms. One whole side of the building will be glass, not only bringing in light and heat, but letting the public see justice being done with complete transparency.
There may also be construction elements that play with the light to produce natural colors that will dance across the floor in the lobby.
He says the building is designed to be energy efficient and should be serviceable for the next 75 years.
Vanderveen says they have been working with judges and officials from the prosecutor’s office for months to give them the facilities they need and want.
— Copy written by John McNeil —
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