rehabilitation strategy focused on finding an interim solution by identifying a compatible tenant. GSA’s goals were the retention of original interior configurations, significant fixtures, and finishes of all the historic courtrooms, particularly Courtroom No. 8.The County of Los Angeles had an acute need for courtroom space and administrative support offices in the LA Civic Center area, and GSA had empty courtrooms that could be filled. In 2018, GSA concluded an effort executing a Section 111 lease with the State of California transforming the U.S. Courthouse into the new home of the Superior Court of California for the County of Los Angeles. The courthouse is meeting the judicial needs of the state and maintaining the building’s historic function while GSA works to develop a long-term strategy for reinvestment and use of the building, which will require significant appropriations to address its occupancy and capital investment needs to maintain it as a viable federal asset. The lease will last for a period of 10 years, and consists of all rentable square footage on floors 1, 2, 8, and 9.All 16 of the building’s courtrooms have been reused for their originally intended purpose, after minor renovations were completed. This included carpet replacement, addition of data and power outlets, and signage. GSA required that the jury boxes and seats remain but did allow the removal and storage of the large attorney’s tables. The remainder of the building is occupied by the U.S.Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service. Thus use of Section 111 kept the property in public use and in federal ownership, while a plan to obtain capital funding is developed.
U.S. Courthouse and Post Office now home to the Superior Court of California for the County of Los Angeles (Carol M. Highsmith Photography, Inc./GSA)
Façade of the Courthouse (Carol M. Highsmith Photography, Inc./GSA)
“Since the court moved its Complex Civil services into the Spring Street Courthouse in 2018, we’ve expanded operations from two floors and 16 courtrooms to four floors and 24 courtrooms in this art moderne landmark. Our renovation and occupancy of these floors brings life and vibrancy back into this treasured courthouse. The vast courtrooms, finished with walnut wainscoting and geometric designs, provide an ornate, historic backdrop for our judges and court staff to provide access to justice and serve the community.” Los Angeles Superior Court Presiding Judge Eric C.Taylor
IN A SPIRIT OF STEWARDSHIP: A REPORT ON FEDERAL HISTORIC PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 2021 | 61
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