City leadership, members of the Judiciary, and project partners gathered to cut the ribbon on the new Staunton Juvenile & Domestic Relations (J&DR) District Courthouse on Thursday. Located at 2020 West Beverley Street, the new facility represents a significant civic investment in the city’s West End and meets the Commonwealth’s mandate for a modern, secure court facility.
The ceremony offered attendees and members of the media their first look inside the 34,330-square-foot facility, which sits on the site of the former Chestnut Hills Shopping Center.
“Today marks an exciting day for the West End,” said Mayor Michele Edwards. “This is a tangible commitment to the revitalization of our West End neighborhoods. We are thrilled to open these doors and see this area continue to thrive around it.”
The two-story brick building was designed by Moseley Architects and constructed by Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc. The $24.7 million project was completed on an aggressive timeline, having only broken ground in April 2024.
“Our goal was to provide a safe, modern space that respects the dignity of everyone who walks through these doors,” said City Manager Leslie Beauregard. “Seeing the finished product today, I am proud to say we have achieved that. This is a facility that will serve our community and our judicial system well for generations.”
The new facility features two modern courtrooms and secure program areas for the City Sheriff’s Office, Clerk’s Office, and Court Service Unit.
“We will do important work here. Founded on the rule of law, this Court is charged with protecting the welfare of children and families, ensuring the safety of the community and the protection of the rights of victims, both children and family members,” said Judge Susan Read of the Staunton Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. “This Courthouse supports this work by providing a safe and accessible space and, in its design, reflects the importance, authority, and stability of our justice system.”
“Staunton’s new courthouse is much more than a new building; it’s a center for justice and hope. We’re honored to be a part of this important project for the city,” said Jeff Boehm, President of Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc. “Helping children and families in the communities we serve – whether through education, recreation, rehabilitation, or redirection – is a key element of Shockey’s commitment to serving as The Partner of Choice.”
The completion of the courthouse solves a critical infrastructure challenge. Following a 2022 referendum where Augusta County voters opted to move their courts to Verona, the City of Staunton was required to establish its own separate J&DR facility.
Future Development
While the courthouse is now open, the city is continuing planning efforts for the remainder of the site. Work is currently underway with a consultant to develop a conceptual design for the future use of the surrounding property, supporting the long-term vision for revitalizing the West Beverley Street corridor.
More information about the project history is available at staunton.va.us/courthouse.