U.S. Courthouse in Cedar Rapids, IA

Fentress recently visited the Northern District of Iowa to assess federal courthouses in Cedar Rapids and Sioux City.  The U.S. Courthouse in Cedar Rapids serves as the district headquarters.  Built in 2012, the new courthouse replaced the old U.S. Courthouse (built in 1928), which was one of numerous buildings damaged or destroyed by floods that devastated the Midwest in 2008.  The old courthouse was repaired and now serves as Cedar Rapids City Hall.  The new U.S. Courthouse was constructed on a site nine feet above projected flood levels and is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rated.  The building is a transparent eight-story contemporary style structure enclosed in horizontal cut limestone and blast-resistant glass.  The court’s judges were actively involved in the planning and design of the new courthouse, including selecting the limestone and other materials.  Despite the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the emergency courthouse construction in Cedar Rapids, the court is rightfully proud of the result.  Fentress’ work will aid the court in planning for future courtroom, chambers, and office space needs in this impressive new building.