Franklin County Approves Urban Renewal Plan for Courthouse Upgrades

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The Franklin County Board of Supervisors has approved the creation of the 2026 Building Restoration Urban Renewal Area centered on the Franklin County Courthouse. During a public hearing, no objections were filed, and supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution declaring the area an economic development zone. The urban renewal plan authorizes improvements to the courthouse, including electrical upgrades and tuckpointing work. Supervisors also approved a separate resolution setting a public hearing on a proposed $1.3 million general obligation urban renewal loan agreement to help fund the courthouse project.

Why it matters

The approval of the urban renewal area and potential bond funding will allow Franklin County to make critical infrastructure upgrades to the historic county courthouse, preserving a key civic building and community landmark. The courthouse serves as the seat of county government, and these improvements will help ensure it can continue operating efficiently for years to come.

The details

The urban renewal plan covers an area centered around the Franklin County Courthouse and authorizes a range of improvements, including electrical system upgrades and tuckpointing work on the building's masonry. Supervisors also approved a resolution to hold a public hearing on March 24 regarding a proposed $1.3 million general obligation urban renewal loan agreement that would help finance the courthouse project.

• The Franklin County Board of Supervisors approved the urban renewal area during a public hearing on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
• A public hearing on the proposed $1.3 million bond is scheduled for March 24, 2026 at 9:45 a.m.

What’s next

The Franklin County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on March 24, 2026 to consider approving the proposed $1.3 million general obligation urban renewal loan agreement to help fund the courthouse renovation project.