Iredell Commissioners Approve Major Courthouse, Fairgrounds Projects

The Iredell County Board of Commissioners approved major contracts Tuesday that move forward a new Hall of Justice expansion and the next phase of the county fairgrounds redevelopment while also discussing future fire service funding, school bus safety, and procurement policy updates.

Among the largest items approved was the first phase of the Hall of Justice Expansion and Renovation Project. Commissioners unanimously approved Budget Amendment No. 1 and awarded a Construction Manager at Risk preconstruction services contract to Edifice Construction for $334,970. The overall project carries a target budget of approximately $65 million.

County officials said the project is designed to address overcrowding within the jail and improve judicial facilities. Funding includes money previously set aside for a health department project, along with additional fund balance appropriations.

Commissioners also approved a $7,577,968 contract with FL Bloom for Phase 2 of the Iredell County Fairgrounds redevelopment. The project will construct a 10,000-square-foot Farmers Market facility featuring 29 vendor stalls, a commercial kitchen, office space, restrooms, and an emergency shelter area.

Construction is expected to begin in September 2026, following the conclusion of the Iredell County Agricultural Fair, with completion planned before the 2027 fair. County officials said the project will be funded entirely through state grant dollars.

In addition to the construction projects, commissioners discussed long-term options for fire service funding, reviewed school bus safety enforcement efforts, and considered updates to county procurement policies aimed at improving purchasing procedures.

The approved projects represent some of the county's largest ongoing capital investments and are expected to enhance public safety, expand community resources, and support future growth across Iredell County.