Sponsored content contributed by AOC Business Partner: Pence
Public facilities, like courthouses and law enforcement buildings, are among the most complex projects a county can undertake. They must balance safety, accessibility, and functionality, reflect community needs and remain poised for growth. Just as critical, these projects bring together many important voices — commissioners, judges, court staff, law enforcement, architects, engineers, and the public.
To be a true partner, we believe the role of a general contractor extends beyond construction. Our value lies in helping these diverse groups align around a shared vision. This requires not only coordination, but also listening, building trust, and ensuring every partner feels heard and respected.
The expansion and renovation of the Deschutes County Courthouse illustrate this approach. With hard construction costs of $38 million, this 50,933-square-foot project nearly doubles the courthouse’s footprint by adding new courtrooms, jury assembly space, staff offices, sheriff’s offices, and updated security screening and holding facilities. A new entrance and lobby will seamlessly integrate the two buildings while keeping the courthouse fully operational throughout the construction process.
Managing the diverse interests of multiple stakeholders under such conditions is no small task. Pence Project Executive John Williamson explains, “Building courthouses requires consideration of many different voices. Our role is to listen to all parties and ensure every perspective is heard, while keeping the project moving forward.”
That balance begins by setting aligned goals at the outset of the project— a process we call our Project Charter. This combined vision of key project goals helps guide daily decisions, resolve differences, and ensure the project’s success.
During the preconstruction phase, we engage stakeholders in meaningful discussions about cost, schedules, logistics, and design. Throughout construction, we maintain alignment through clear communication channels, from regular OAC meetings to live project dashboards and regular site walks with key stakeholders. By ensuring information is transparent and accessible, we transform potential challenges into opportunities for collaboration. On site at the courthouse, Senior Superintendent Kurt Schwabauer has seen how this approach plays out daily.
“We’re building right alongside active court proceedings. It only works because of the open communication and trust we’ve built with courthouse staff and county leadership. We recognize that those proceedings are critical, and the first priority on site.” says Kurt.
For Deschutes County, this collaborative approach helps ensure the courthouse project — set for completion in 2026 — delivers secure, functional, and future-ready space for the Central Oregon community. For Pence, it reflects what we do best: transforming complexity into clarity, and many voices into one shared vision that leads to successful outcomes.