2024 is the year to improve the nearly 100-year-old Red River Parish Courthouse. Established in 1928, the building has not been renovated significantly in almost 30 years. At this month’s Police Jury meeting, an update revealed that most new windows were installed during the first phase of renovations. This will allow for more changes to be made to the interior in phase two. The building is to be cleaned on the exterior, and repairs to damaged window frames and roof issues are being addressed.

This phase will also include leveling and repairing the sidewalks and walkways and addressing issues with the grounds. Trees will be removed, and all green spaces will be filled in and leveled. Board members said this will allow for better grass management and future landscaping.

This phase also includes changes to existing offices housed in the courthouse and the Administration building. The Police Jury purchased the former Red River Parish School Board building, may soon house the Red River Health Unit and other offices. New windows, roof repairs, and interior changes are in the works for this building.

The former Red River Technology and Adult Ed Building (the old bank building on Front Street) will be the new Red River Voter Registration Office. New windows and doors have been installed, and the interior of the building will soon be ready for the entire voter’s office to move in. This move will allow for more handicap accessibility and better access to the public overall.

A third building purchased from the school district is directly behind the Voter Registration Office. What was formerly the Parent Center will now be the home of the Extension office and 4-H. This building has had a significant renovation to the exterior and changes interiorly.

As phase two begins soon, several changes to parking and sidewalks for these buildings will begin. During the Police Jury meeting, President Murray announced that the land purchase on the corner of Alonzo and Hessemer Ave. (Front Street) had been completed. He also indicated they had purchased the land and building across East Carroll St. from the Court House. These acquisitions will be integral to the second phase.