Courthouses around the state are undergoing renovations – some because of age and others due to population growth that strains judicial dockets and related services.

Plans are underway to install a new roof and façade for the Vermilion County Courthouse annex in Danville. Fragments of glass, brick and other debris fell to the sidewalk in January from the east wall.

County officials noticed subsequently that the stucco façade was pulling away from the building, and leaking water affected some offices and the primary election process last month.

Constructed in 1899 of red sandstone blocks, the building was purchased by the county in the 1980s. The stucco installation covered up existing windows.

An unrelated downtown fire on March 26 caused the courthouse to be closed while firefighters fought the blaze in a nearby building

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Changes under way at security entrances to the Peoria County Courthouse resulted in a change of the Main Street entrance point from one side of the hall to the other, so individuals will not have to wait outside during adverse weather.

Metal posts have been replaced by wooden walls that eventually will be made of safety glass. Security officers will stand on platforms, and new X-ray machines are expected to speed the rate of access.

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The growing cost of plans for a build-out of the 17th Circuit Courthouse in Belvidere, to accommodate current and future needs ($5.4 million), reportedly exceeds available funding ($4 million).

Boone County officials are considering alternate plans, such as relocating offices that are not court-related. Judge Paul A. Logli said proposals that fit the budget are inadequate.