Officials are hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Forsyth County’s new courthouse this Thursday.
The new facility at 175 North Chestnut Street in downtown Winston-Salem will replace the county’s nearly 50-year-old Hall of Justice on Main Street. It has been under construction since February of 2021.
The new courthouse is over 250,000 square feet, about 50% larger than the old space with four additional courtrooms. In a press release, officials said the new building has an easier-to-navigate layout and features a bridge to the government center and a secure tunnel to the detention center.
It will also house the Public Defender’s office, which was previously located in a separate building.
The move will impact court operations in the coming weeks. Criminal and superior courts will be closed through Friday, October 20. District criminal and civil courts will operate on a reduced level.
The ribbon cutting will be held this Thursday, October 12, from 10 a.m. to noon. The courthouse will officially open to the public on Monday, October 23.