Groundbreaking Held for the New Lincoln County Justice Center

CANTON, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and members of the South Dakota Second Judicial Circuit held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Lincoln County Justice Center in Canton on Tuesday.

The 40-acre campus will focus on both civil and criminal actions that need to be addressed within the county.

The Justice Center will house a number of offices, including the State's Attorney's office, several courtrooms, a hearing room and more. It would also include a shell space for a future expansion project such as a jail or additional courtrooms if needed.

"This new courthouse will represent more than just a building. It embodies the values and aspirations of this community, and it signifies a commitment to a fair and efficient justice system and to ensuring that every individual in this county has access to justice," said Robin Houwman, presiding judge for the Second Judicial Circuit.

The plan for a new Justice Center was implemented due to issues with the current courthouse such as the age, space and issues with bats in the building.

The $54.8 million project is expected to be up and running by September 2026.

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