Judicial Branch Capital Construction projects are partnerships between local governments and the Kentucky Court of Justice. As the owner of the project, local governments issue tax-exempt bonds to fund project costs. The Administrative Office of the Courts is responsible for overseeing the design, financing and construction of court facilities and pays debt service on the bonds issued by the local government.
KRS 26A.160 mandates that the Chief Justice of the Commonwealth establish rules governing the design, financing, and construction of court facilities. In response, the Supreme Court has adopted the Rules of Administrative Procedure (AP) Part X, Sections I–III, which set forth the standards for these matters. All court facility projects are required to comply with AP Part X.
Once a Judicial Branch Capital Construction project has been authorized by the General Assembly, the Chief Justice convenes a Project Development Board (PDB) to act as the agent of the local government and the Court of Justice in developing the project. PDBs are comprised of:
- The local government's highest official (e.g. County Judge/ Executive, Mayor, etc.) who serves as the Chair.
- Most senior Circuit Judge
- Most senior District Judge
- Circuit Court Clerk
- Citizen-at-large (appointed by the AOC Director)
- A local attorney (appointed by the Executive Director of the Kentucky Bar Association)
PDBs are responsible for selecting and discharging construction and professional service providers; approving consultants and subcontractors; approving requests for additional service fees; selecting property for purchase; approving project designs in compliance with Project Program Documents developed by the AOC; approving change orders and pay applications; and authorizing pay requisitions.
Barren County Judicial Center
Ground was broken on the construction of the Barren County Judicial Center on Oct. 30, 2025 with an expected completion date in 2028.
Jessamine County Judicial Center
Ground was broken on the construction of the Jessamine County Judicial Center on Dec. 3, 2025 with an expected completion date in 2028.
Jessamine County Judicial Center Information
Knox County Courthouse
Knox County Judicial Center Information
Madison County Courthouse
Ground was broken on the construction of the Madison County Courthouse in June 2023. The courthouse was completed in April 2025, with the courthouse reopening to the public May 12, 2025.
Oldham County Judicial Center
Ground was broken on the construction of the Oldham County Judicial Center in March 2023 and was completed in January of 2026.
Scott County Judicial Center
Ground was broken on the construction of the Scott County Judicial Center on Aug. 22, 2025 with an expected completion date in Spring 2027.
Scott County Judicial Center Information
