The Board of Supervisors has accepted the Nevada County Courthouse Highest and Best Use Study which identifies possible future uses after the site is vacated in 2031.
Nelson, an architectural firm hired by the County, presented the study to the Board Tuesday. The company recommends splitting the site into two parcels – the courthouse and the annex. The courthouse could be repurposed for institutional use such as a government agency, museum or school while the annex is best suited for housing, the company said.
Supervisor Lisa Swarthout said that the key is flexibility, as many factors could change before the building is vacated. “It’s an iconic building in Nevada City and we all want to see the best and highest use. The challenges will be finding a developer who would want to take on this project.”
The courthouse is expected to be vacated because of the state’s decision to construct a replacement building. The County hired Nelson to analyze and recommend viable options for reuse which will help inform future decisions regarding the site in order to prevent the courthouse from becoming a “zombie building” and to provide the best use for the community.
The original courthouse was built in 1856, rebuilt in 1864, added onto in 1900, and then remodeled and added onto in 1936, in the Art Moderne style seen today. The annex was completed in 1964.
Nelson’s recommendations were based on feedback from community members who attended public meetings. “I want to applaud the community that came out and shared their views and vision,” said Board of Supervisors Chair Heidi Hall.