The Forsyth County courthouse is getting ready to operate in a new home. Court officials have started to move into the building at 175 N. Chestnut St. in Winston-Salem. It’s just around the corner — about a 5 minute walk — from its current location on North Main Street. The new courthouse will be about two-and-a-half times larger than the existing Forsyth County Hall of Justice.
Why a new courthouse
The new courthouse was approved after county officials, courthouse employees, and residents complained about the crowded space of the existing building. Additionally, a new parking deck is also located beside the Forsyth County Government Center. The cost of both projects totaled $115.6 million.
Here are the new features to expect
- 17 courtrooms
- Three hearing rooms
- Two escalators + four public elevators
- An underground tunnel will connect the new courthouse to the Forsyth County Jail
- The new building will share a walkway with the Forsyth County Government Center
Upcoming dates to keep in mind
The Clerk of Superior Court’s office will operate as usual except for the following times:
- Tuesday, Oct. 10 and Wednesday, Oct. 18 — Clerk’s office closed from 12–2 p.m.
- Thursday, Oct. 12 — Ribbon cutting at the new location at 10 a.m.
- Friday, Oct. 20 — Current courthouse closes to the public at 5 p.m., clerk’s office closes at 12 p.m.
- Monday, Oct. 23 — New courthouse opens at 8 a.m. and courts and services will resume
The Court has issued a memorandum to inform the public about court operations.