Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana - The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and local officials have begun construction on a new judicial complex in downtown Lake Charles, one of the largest public facility projects in the parish’s history. The groundbreaking ceremony marks a significant milestone as the community moves to modernize and consolidate district court operations while honoring Lake Charles’ historic architecture.
Located between the Magnolia Building and the Parish Government Building, the planned three-story, 108,000-square-foot facility is designed to complement the existing historic courthouse. The new complex will bring together all district court functions—family, juvenile, civil, and criminal—under one roof for the first time, streamlining the parish’s judicial operations for greater efficiency and public access.
Upon completion, the facility will feature 11 courtrooms, ample public waiting areas, jury deliberation rooms, judges’ chambers, and modernized staff offices. Space is also dedicated to the District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, and Clerk of Court staff, centralizing key legal functions and supporting collaboration among justice partners.
Safety is a core consideration in the design. The complex will include separate holding areas for adults and juveniles, ensuring security for all building users. According to Police Jury President Judd Bares, centralizing district court operations “will significantly enhance the safety and security of our judges, staff, and everyone who visits the complex” while reducing long-term costs by eliminating the need to maintain multiple aging facilities.
Chief Judge Cynthia Clay Guillory of the 14th Judicial District Court, a leader in the decades-long effort, emphasized that the project will “create a space that truly supports ‘equal justice for all.’” She credited the collaboration of parish officials, judges, architects, and city leaders for making the new courthouse a reality.
After construction concludes in early 2028, the existing 14th Judicial District Court building on Lakeshore Drive will be demolished. In its place, the Police Jury plans to establish Calcasieu Square—a new green space featuring a walkable path connecting Lakeshore Drive to Ryan Street, enhancing both accessibility and the downtown landscape.
During construction, the present courthouse will remain operational. To support continued public access, extra accessible parking is being provided, and visitors are encouraged to use the Ryan Street entrance for the Parish Government Building. Residents can take advantage of a range of online parish services, such as permit applications and bill payments, to reduce in-person visits during the construction phase.
The project architect is Champeaux Evans Hotard Architects, and the contractor is Lemoine. Construction is expected to last just under two and a half years, with a targeted completion in the first quarter of 2028. Timelines may adjust slightly as the project progresses.
The new Calcasieu Parish Judicial Complex is poised to serve the community for generations, symbolizing a commitment to modern justice, efficient government, and downtown revitalization.