Chicago Construction News staff writer
Construction of the new Tazewell County Justice Center Annex has reached a major milestone with the topping-out of the 87,000-sq. ft facility in downtown Pekin.
Wold Architects and Engineers and P.J. Hoerr Inc. Construction joined Tazewell County representatives and other project team members last week for a topping-out ceremony marking the completion of the building’s structural frame.
The new Justice Center Annex is designed to provide modern and secure court operations while maintaining the county’s presence in downtown Pekin. The facility is located across from the historic Tazewell County Courthouse.
The building will open with three criminal courtrooms, with shelled space available for the eventual construction of three additional courtrooms. The larger courtrooms will be accompanied by improved spaces for judges and jurors.
The annex will be connected to the adjacent Justice Center and county jail through an underground tunnel designed to allow the secure movement of people in custody to and from court.
The facility also will house the State’s Attorney, Probation and Circuit Clerk’s offices, bringing several justice-related functions into one location.
A key feature of the design is the separation of circulation routes for judges and staff, the public, and people in custody. The three-way separation is intended to improve security and efficiency compared with operations in the existing facilities.
The building’s exterior is designed to combine a contemporary aesthetic with architectural influences from surrounding buildings, including the historic courthouse and existing Justice Center, helping the new facility fit into downtown Pekin.
The project is being delivered as new construction for Tazewell County, with completion anticipated in fall or winter 2026.
Wold is providing architecture and engineering services for the project, including electrical engineering. P.J. Hoerr Inc. is serving as the construction contractor.
