California Construction News staff writer
Construction has officially begun on a new courthouse in Sunnyvale, following a groundbreaking ceremony attended by judicial, government and community representatives.
Justices and court staff from the Court of Appeal, Sixth Appellate District hosted the ceremony Aug. 5 to mark the start of construction.
California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero joined appellate court justices, superior court judges, attorneys, representatives of justice partners and legislative offices, and state and local officials for the event.
The new courthouse is designed to improve safety, security and public access. Plans include visitor security screening and internal circulation designed to maintain separate areas for the public and court personnel.
The building will also provide expanded space for public waiting areas, service counters, the clerk’s office and mediation rooms. On-site parking will be available for justices, court staff and members of the public.
Sustainability is also a key component of the project. The all-electric building is expected to meet California Energy Code requirements and qualify for LEED Silver certification through the U.S. Green Building Council.
Planned features include solar energy generation, electric vehicle charging stations, drought-tolerant landscaping, efficient irrigation and plumbing systems, and energy-efficient lighting and building systems.
The project is part of California’s statewide court facilities program, which oversees planning, design, construction, operations and management for facilities used by the state’s Supreme Court, Courts of Appeal and trial courts.
Since the state judicial branch assumed responsibility for courthouses in 2002, its construction program has completed 39 new courthouse projects. Another 14 projects are underway or in various stages of development.
