FRANKFORT, Ind.—After more than two years of planning and construction, Clinton County officials are celebrating the near-completion of their new Courthouse Annex, a modern facility designed to streamline government operations and support future growth.
Located at the corner of Main and Washington Streets in downtown Frankfort, the three-story, 41,925-square-foot building replaces the former Regions Bank site, which was demolished in early 2023. The annex is expected to cost approximately $18 million and will house a wide range of county offices previously located in the historic courthouse.
Construction began following a groundbreaking ceremony in August 2023. The project was managed by Envoy, Inc., an Indianapolis-based firm with over $2 billion in civic and institutional projects across Indiana. Known for its work with schools, government agencies, and public-private partnerships, Envoy emphasizes transparency and community impact. Architectural design was led by RQAW | DCCM, a full-service firm specializing in public safety and municipal buildings. With over 70 years of experience, RQAW is recognized for its innovative, cost-conscious designs that prioritize accessibility and long-term functionality.
County officials began moving into the new facility on October 20, 2025, with the transition expected to take up to two weeks. The annex will consolidate key departments under one roof, improving public access and interdepartmental coordination.
The first floor will house the Surveyor’s Office, Area Plan Commission, Veterans’ Service Officer, and the County Commissioner and Council offices. The second floor will accommodate the Auditor, Treasurer, Recorder, and Assessor. The third floor will feature temporary courtrooms and additional administrative space.
Originally, the county considered renovating the existing bank building, but structural challenges and cost concerns led to the decision to pursue new construction. The annex is part of a broader downtown revitalization effort that includes updates to the historic courthouse and improved public infrastructure.
Clinton County, home to approximately 32,652 residents as of 2025, has experienced modest population decline in recent years. Frankfort, the county seat, remains the largest city and a focal point for civic investment.
The Courthouse Annex is expected to be fully operational by early November, marking a significant milestone in Clinton County’s civic development. A public open house is anticipated later this fall to showcase the new facility and welcome residents.
In addition to the Clinton County Courthouse Annex, RQAW | DCCM has an extensive portfolio of justice-related projects across Indiana and the Midwest. The firm has designed numerous county jails, sheriff’s offices, and public safety facilities, including the Hamilton County Jail Expansion and the Boone County Justice Center. Their approach emphasizes secure, efficient layouts that support modern correctional practices and community engagement.
RQAW’s justice team is known for integrating advanced security technologies and flexible courtroom configurations that accommodate evolving judicial needs. Their experience in balancing functionality with architectural integrity has made them a trusted partner for counties seeking to modernize their justice infrastructure while preserving civic identity.
