Since Hurricane Florence landed in eastern North Carolina September 2018, the 84-year old Pender County Courthouse has remained closed due to extensive water damage caused by the massive storm that lingered over the coast for days.
Located on approx. 4 acres, the 19,000 SF historic structure received exterior repairs from October 2019 thru April 2020 in preparation to restore the functionality of this iconic Burgaw landmark. On April 23, 2020, sealed bids were accepted at the Pender County Administration Building in Burgaw for interior renovations as indicated on the plans and specifications by LS3P (Architect). Following the Pender County Commissioners meeting on Monday, May 4, 2020, a Notice of Intent to Award was issued to Thomas Construction Group for the planned interior renovations to the Pender County Courthouse in Burgaw, NC.
The pre-bid process was logistically challenging due to COVID-19 precautions. A pre-bid meeting was conducted virtually, as was the bid opening. “As a contractor working in these unprecedented times, we spent a lot of time contacting and talking with subcontractors and vendors throughout the bid process. Fortunately for Thomas, construction has been considered “essential” but for some small firms, business as usual has been difficult,” says Jim Hundley, EVP and Director of Preconstruction for Thomas.
Work is slated to begin in June and will consist of storm damage repairs and renovations including, but not limited to, relocation and new mechanical and electrical systems; lead/asbestos abatement; ADA improvements; plaster demolition, repair and replacement; custom woodwork; new elevator and shaft; new courtroom seating; and new finishes throughout.
“We have decided to move some of the building’s mechanical structures to protect against future damage,” says Charles Boney, Jr., FAIA, LS3P. “This is a marquee project for Pender County. Preserving the integrity of this as a landmark is important to county officials, as well as protecting it from future events.”
