Blair County Courthouse Roof Project Enters Final Phase

Blair County commissioners have greenlit the third and final phase of the courthouse roof restoration, aiming to resolve ongoing water infiltration issues.

 

The approved $345,000 contract with David M. Maines Associates Inc. of Lewistown focuses on the flat roof sections of the building's modern extension.

 

Previous phases concentrated on the original courthouse structure, with Phase I completed in 2019 and Phase II concluding in 2025, totaling approximately $1.3 million.

 

Nick Burket, Public Works/Facilities Director, noted that thermal imaging surveys identified areas where water was penetrating the building's interior.

 

These problem spots will be addressed in the upcoming phase.

 

Phase III plans include installing a new rubberized undercoating, lightning protection, anti-slip pads, and related enhancements.

 

The new roofing sections come with a 30-year warranty.

 

Commissioner Laura Burke anticipates completion by the end of 2026, with minimal disruption to courthouse operations, though some noise is expected.

 

"With it being a rubber roof, it's not as noisy or interrupting as the previous work we did," Burke stated.

 

Persistent leaks have damaged office equipment, including computers, and disrupted workspaces on the fourth floor, affecting offices such as the commissioners', District Attorney's, and Juvenile Probation.

 

"We've had computers that were damaged and other things, and you don't see those costs," Burke said.

 

"So it's a big price tag, but it's worth it when you think about the disruption that the leaks have caused to work on the fourth floor."

 

Burke expressed confidence in the contractor, citing satisfaction with their performance in the previous phases.

 

"We were really happy with this contractor on phases I and II, so we're hoping to have a similar outcome with phase III," she said.

 

The Blair County Courthouse, constructed in 1875 and expanded in 1906, is a historic landmark in Hollidaysburg.

 

Maintaining its structural integrity is vital for preserving its historical significance and ensuring the safety of its occupants.

 

As the project progresses, the community looks forward to a restored courthouse free from the longstanding issues of water damage.