The Caldwell County Courthouse is set to undergo significant improvements for the first time in more than a quarter century after the county secured a nearly $3.8 million state grant. 

The $3,784,202 grant awarded through the Texas Historical Commission’s Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program covers both exterior and interior improvements, requiring only a 15% match from Caldwell County. 

The award announcement follows action taken earlier this year by Caldwell County commissioners, who voted to approve the grant application as well as a new courthouse master plan that provides a roadmap for future improvements, ranking them in order of priority. 

The county contracted with San Antonio-based architecture and design firm Ford, Powell and Carson to draft and finalize the master plan that was a necessary prerequisite to applying and qualifying for the grant. The plan lists pages of potential improvements that would improve functionality while preserving the character of the courthouse. 

“A lot of hard work went into securing funding through an intensely competitive process,” Grants Administrator Amber Quinley said. “We appreciate the efforts of all county staff who made this possible as well as the talented team at Ford, Powell and Carson for shepherding us through the master plan process.” 

The Texas Historical Commission said 27 had applied for funding totaling $159 million for this round. Of the $100 million appropriated by the state Legislature, approximately $96.5 million was awarded. 

The full restoration grant covers exterior and interior improvements, including planning and design work. The last major refresh for the Caldwell County Courthouse took place between 1998-2000. 

“The courthouse is a source of pride for many who call Caldwell County home and a treasured landmark that draws visitors from all over,” Caldwell County Judge Hoppy Haden said. “We are happy to have this chance to make our courthouse a safer, more functional building for all whom it serves.”