Morrow County officials held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Morrow County Courthouse, a 22,000 square foot, two-story building that will replace the current historic courthouse in Heppner. The event brought together local residents and project partners to mark the start of construction on a facility designed to provide modern judicial and government services while reflecting the area’s agricultural and rural heritage.
The decision to build a new courthouse came after county leaders determined that the existing courthouse no longer met operational needs or state requirements for judicial functions. A comprehensive review found that constructing a new building near the original site was more efficient than renovating or expanding the old structure.
County officials worked with DLR Group to design a building informed by community values and regional traditions. Architectural features include gray brick made from locally quarried basalt, gabled volumes, and a prominent wooden staircase. Courtroom spaces are planned with mass timber beams, vaulted ceilings, and skylights intended to create a welcoming environment while supporting security protocols.
“This courthouse is an investment in our future,” said David Sykes, Commission Chair. “I toured this site with the Oregon Supreme Court Chief Justice after I was first elected as commissioner. As we looked at the rolling hills of this location, the Chief Justice said, ‘This is a great place to build the courthouse.’ Three year’s later, this groundbreaking represents an investment of hard work and cooperation that ensures our residents are served with dignity, accessibility, and respect.”
The new facility will house a circuit courtroom, jury assembly room, offices for key legal staff including the District Attorney and Public Defender, secure holding areas on its north side, and other support spaces. The design uses natural grade changes on site to distribute functions across two levels without requiring a holding elevator.
A feasibility study developed with DLR Group helped define requirements and secure funding for the project. Bouten Construction Co. was selected as construction manager/general contractor (CM/GC). Construction is expected to be completed by summer 2027.
“As we break ground today, we mark both the beginning of construction and the culmination of years of thoughtful planning and community collaboration,” said Lori Coppenrath, Justice+Civic Planning Leader and Principal at DLR Group. “Morrow County’s new courthouse will stand as a testament to civic pride, regional heritage, and the County’s ongoing commitment to accessible, modern justice.”
