STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
The Barren County Judicial Center Project Development Board heard that construction on the new Barren County Justice Center is running behind schedule because of recent rain, but key structural and utility work is moving forward.
The board met for its recent regular session and confirmed a quorum before taking up financial and construction issues.
According to the meeting record, voting members present included Barren County Judge-Executive and board chair Jamie Bewley Byrd, Barren Circuit Judge John Alexander, Barren District Judge Gabe Pendleton, Barren County Bar representative Rich Alexander, citizen representative Joan Norris and Barren Circuit Court Clerk Julie Wright Jolly.
Administrative Office of the Courts representatives Danny Rhoades and Jerry Combs joined the meeting by Zoom.
Board members first approved the minutes from their June 24, 2026, meeting.
They also signed off on minutes from an Aug. 17 executive committee session.
The board then unanimously approved a disbursement request listed at $687,352.18. The payment is part of the ongoing funding for construction of the new justice center.
Members also considered several construction change orders related to site work and building features.
According to the discussion, the change orders covered termite treatment, deleting gun lockers from the plan, additional fencing and a gate, and curtain wall work.
Architect representative Adam Gillett told the board the public stair tower at the front edge between the two courtrooms has been corrected.
He said crews will now shift to the other two elevator towers, which will continue to rise vertically, and then begin forming the three-dimensional area and correcting remaining masonry walls.
Construction managers reported the overall project is currently running behind schedule because of rain.
Despite the delay, they said masonry work on the stair towers is progressing, and construction of the elevator shafts is expected to be completed in about two weeks.
Once that phase is done, the masonry crew will move into the secure areas of the facility, which are expected to consist mostly of masonry construction. Plumbing and electrical work is also underway.
They expect the number of workers on the project to increase significantly as additional trades begin their work.
Byrd announced the next Project Development Board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. Central time.
Key Facts
– Project Development Board held regular meeting Aug. 26, 2026
– Members approved a $687,352.18 disbursement request
– Several construction change orders won unanimous approval
– Weather-related delays are pushing the schedule behind
– Masonry stair towers and elevator shafts now taking shape
– Plumbing and electrical work have begun on site
– Worker count expected to increase as more trades arrive
– Next board meeting set for Sept. 30, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. CST
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