County breaks ground to reopen Downtown Courthouse front entrance
Published on October 05, 2026
Jackson County broke ground on a major improvement project at the courthouse in Kansas City. It will allow visitors to once again use the front entrance, which has been closed for several years.
The project will replace the front steps originally built in 1934 and significantly improve accessibility, safety, and security at the historic Courthouse. A key part of the project is creating an ADA-accessible front entrance that meets current standards and will allow the County to use the building’s main entrance again.
“For years, the front doors of our downtown Courthouse have been closed, and this project is the first real step toward getting those doors open again,” Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota said. “Investing in our County infrastructure means taking care of the buildings our taxpayers own and making sure they are safe and accessible for everyone. Our residents and employees deserve a Courthouse entrance that is welcoming, functional, and accessible and I’m excited to see that work begin.”
The project will also include new entrance doors to improve security and access, a snow-melt system for inclement weather, new landscaping, cleaning of the lower facade, and accessibility improvements at the west entrance.
During the groundbreaking ceremony LeVota said, “This is an important investment in a building that has served Jackson County for generations and will continue to serve our community for many years to come. But projects like this don't happen because of one person or one office. They happen when County government works together.”
“I want to thank the Jackson County Legislature for approving the funding necessary to make this project possible,” he said. “When the Executive's Office and Legislature work together toward a common goal, we can get things done for the people we serve. Today is a good example of that partnership.”
LeVota also recognized the county Public Works and Facilities teams along with RAND, the contractor on the project. “We appreciate your partnership and look forward to seeing this work take shape over the coming months.”
The project is anticipated to be completed in late spring of 2027.
“I know I won't be standing here as County Executive when these doors officially reopen. I have just 88 days remaining in office, but that made it important to me that we mark this moment together,” he said.
“I wanted the members of the Legislature and everyone who helped move this project forward to have the opportunity to celebrate its beginning. Because elected officials come and go, but the work we do should continue making a difference long after we leave office. Next spring, when these front doors open again, what will matter is that the people of Jackson County have a Courthouse that is safer, more accessible, and better able to serve them. I'm proud that we are getting that work started today.”
The downtown Jackson County Courthouse is one of the County’s most recognizable public buildings and serves residents, employees and visitors from throughout Jackson County. The improvements are part of Jackson County’s ongoing efforts to maintain and improve County infrastructure while ensuring public facilities are accessible to everyone.