BEND, OR -- Deschutes County Commissioners on Wednesday approved adding a fourth floor to planned renovations at the County Courthouse.  

Commissioner Phil Chang says the additional space is helpful, even if it isn't used by court staff initially. “There are opportunities to use that space for activities, (and) organizations that are court-related. (That) makes it a much more attractive proposition,” said Chang adding that an estimated $44.5 million “is a very big price tag. That said, I definitely think that shelling out the fourth floor is a much more cost-effective option.”

The commissioners were given an option to have three floors built. Commissioners Patti Adair and Tony DeBone also support the fourth floor option because of the space. “Having another 10,000 to 13,000 (square feet of) flex space for future public safety, court proceeding needs is going to be very valuable,” said Debone, while noting the County will be asking the legislature in their next session to help pay for the addition.

Next spring will see the completion of a schematic design along with an updated cost estimate. The Courthouse Expansion could be completed in two to three years.