Courthouse Elevator Renovation | Eastern North Carolina Now

News release:

    As most of you know, funds have been approved to up-fit the public elevator in the courthouse. Realizing that the unavailability of the first and second floors of the courthouse will be a major issue for some of our citizens, I am asking for your cooperation to minimize the inconvenience and confusion.

    Due to the extensive amount of work that is required and material delivery issues, the work is scheduled to be done in two phases:

    •   June 17th - June 28th - Phase I: replacement of cylinder
    •   August 5th - August 30th - Phase II: replacement of electrical components, cables, and door equipment

    The elevator will be closed and unavailable for use during these times.

    Listed below are accommodations that are currently planned. If you have suggestions or have additional needs for your department, please contact me as soon as possible to discuss.

1. Notification of the work will be made in local newspapers, as well as on the cable access channel. This notice will ask any person requiring the services of the courthouse and physically challenged to call the specific department for additional information and accommodation instructions. Please educate your staff on the appropriate response for your department.
2. If a person is unable to climb stairs, but they require the services of the courthouse, they will enter the handicap entrance of the building, as normal. A sign will be posted giving departmental phone numbers that they can call for assistance.
3. A remote office will be set up in the basement of the courthouse to be used by personnel, when needed. This office will be located adjacent to the vending machines and will be supplied with a desk and chairs. Per previous discussions with department heads, if an individual needs assistance, staff will travel to the remote office to meet with the individual.
4. Please schedule, or re-schedule as necessary, all court dates, appointments, and meetings as appropriate to accommodate citizens with special needs.

    It should be noted that Phase I work involves the removal and replacement of the in-ground cylinder which will create drilling and hammering noises in the basement of the courthouse. Phase I of the project is currently scheduled to be complete within two weeks. However, if problems are encountered due to subsurface conditions, it may take longer to complete this phase. Every effort will be made to minimize the extension of the schedule and you will be notified of the revised completion date.

    Thank you for your assistance in advance.

    Christina L. Smith, PE

    Public Works Director

    Beaufort County
    111 W. 2nd Street  •  Washington, NC 27889

    Tel. (252) 975-0720  •  Fax (252) 975-0488  •  christina.smith@co.beaufort.nc.us