Deschutes County Courthouse expansion adds new space as Central Oregon grows

BEND, Ore. — A major expansion of the Deschutes County Courthouse in downtown Bend is nearing completion, adding courtroom space and security improvements as the county’s justice system works to keep pace with a growing Central Oregon.

The $46.8 million project includes a new three-story, 50,933-square-foot addition to the existing courthouse. The expansion includes two sets of courtrooms, jury deliberation rooms, judges’ chambers and support staff offices.

The new space also includes a more accessible entrance, an expanded and upgraded court security checkpoint, public service counters, a lobby and reception area, secure staff parking and a sallyport for transporting people in custody.

The project was developed after two additional judges were appointed to the Deschutes County Circuit Court in 2022, creating a need for additional courtroom space.

Deschutes County Commissioner Tony DeBone said the expansion gives the court system additional room to operate.

“We didn’t have enough courtrooms for the number of judges,” DeBone said. “Now we do, and we have extra room.”

DeBone said the expanded facility also provides a more modern environment for people coming to the courthouse.

“It’s a really bright, modern facility,” DeBone said. “Justice is going to be served. It’s welcoming for all parties.”

The $46.8 million project cost includes the design and construction of the new addition as well as remodeling of the existing main courthouse.

Improvements to the existing courthouse include a new hearing room, meeting spaces, a security office and court administration offices.

The expansion comes as Deschutes County and the rest of Central Oregon continue to grow, increasing demands on the region’s justice system.

For many people, a courthouse is a place they hope they never have to visit. But what happens inside affects victims, defendants, families and the broader community. The expansion is designed to give Deschutes County’s justice system additional space and infrastructure to serve the community for years to come.