The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has broken ground on a new federal courthouse in downtown Chattanooga, Tenn. The agency marked the milestone October 21 alongside federal, state, and local officials.

The classically inspired building will house the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee. The approximately 17,444 m² (191,000 sf) facility carries a construction budget of $282 million and will consolidate several federal court operations under one roof.

“Today’s groundbreaking is an important milestone for Chattanooga and the Eastern District of Tennessee,” said GSA administrator Edward C. Forst.

Chief Judge Travis R. McDonough of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee also noted the project’s long development history.

Project consolidates federal court operations

The new courthouse will bring together the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, and the Circuit Library.

The building will include seven courtrooms and nine judges’ chambers. Plans also call for secure interior parking and dedicated space for federal partners, including the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service.

The GSA expects the project to reach substantial completion in 2030.