County Breaks Ground

Hamilton County officials broke ground this week on a long-anticipated expansion of the Hamilton County Judicial Center in downtown Noblesville. The project will add 133,000 square feet to the existing facility, including seven new courtrooms, upgraded security, and expanded public space.

County officials, judges, and project partners gathered on the west lawn of the Judicial Center to mark the beginning of construction on the three-story addition, which will consolidate multiple county offices and provide room for future growth. The first floor will eventually house county offices, while the second floor will serve as the new home for additional courtrooms. The third floor will remain unfinished for future buildout as caseloads continue to rise.

“This expansion is really about keeping up with the people we serve,” said Superior Court 2 Judge Jon Brown. “Hamilton County’s population has exploded, and our court dockets have grown right along with it. We’re seeing routine hearings being delayed for months. This new space will help us move cases more efficiently and give our judges, staff, and citizens the resources they deserve.”

Built in 1992, the current Judicial Center has been remodeled several times to accommodate new staff and departments, but post-pandemic case filings have pushed the courts well beyond their intended capacity. Once completed, the expansion will also support newly elected judges who take office in 2027.

Hamilton County Commissioners President Christine Altman said the County is continuing to work closely with the City of Noblesville to manage the impact of multiple projects taking place downtown over the next two years.

“Our goal is to make progress without getting in the way,” Altman said. “We’re coordinating closely with the city to align schedules, stage construction trailers and equipment offsite, and keep as much parking and pedestrian access open as possible. We want to minimize disruption for businesses and residents.”

Completion of the project is expected in late 2028.

Photos courtesy Hamilton County