Washington County Courthouse Addition: Engineering Secure Government Facilities

Project Overview

BKBM provided structural engineering services for the large-scale Washington County Campus project in Stillwater, MN. This comprehensive initiative included a five-story courthouse addition, a three-story vertical expansion atop the law enforcement center, and secure connections uniting multiple campus functions.

Project Highlights

  • Five-Story Courthouse Addition:
    • New structural steel and precast facility nestled between two existing campus buildings.
    • Challenging foundation conditions addressed on one side with foundations one story below the adjacent building and on the other side with foundations one level above ground.
    • Collaborated with specialty foundation engineers to resolve complex soil retention issues and ensure safe, stable construction.
  • Law Enforcement Center Expansion:
    • Added three levels of composite steel structure atop the existing two-story building.
    • Although originally designed for future expansion, many existing shear wall foundations required significant supplemental reinforcement.
    • Utilized helical piers to enhance foundation performance for increased gravity and lateral loads.
  • Secure Campus Connections:
    • Constructed new secure front/main entry and connecting links to seamlessly unite courthouse and law enforcement center buildings.
    • Engineered a secure tunnel and elevator beneath the facility for safe, private transport from the jail to the courthouse.
    • Designed all connections to meet heightened campus security and operational needs.

Engineering Solutions

BKBM’s approach featured innovative problem-solving for complex, multi-phase expansion. Collaboration with foundation specialists, creative use of helical piers, and detailed integration planning ensured the stability, safety, and functionality of new and existing campus facilities.

Results & Impact

The Washington County Campus project has transformed county operations—supporting modern justice, law enforcement, and public safety services with robust, secure, and flexible facilities. BKBM’s engineering solutions delivered a resilient and adaptable campus, enabling efficient service delivery for the Stillwater community well into the future.