On July 18, 2023, the Department of Design and Construction announced the completion of a $5.2 million restoration of the front steps of the Staten Island Supreme Court building. The courthouse, located at 18 Richmond Terrance in St. George, is a historic landmark. The courthouse was designated in March 1982. The French Renaissance-style temple-fronted building was designed in 1913 by Carrere & Hastings.
The building’s existing limestone steps and landings were replaced with granite stairs with bluestone landing pavers, which are more durable. The concrete adjacent to the staircase was also replaced, and new reinforced concrete and beams were installed for structural support under the stairs. The stairs also feature new ornamental bronze handrails which look like the building’s original handrails.
New exterior lights were designed to match existing historic fixtures and brackets. The coping stone and iron picket fence on a retaining wall were also replaced. The sidewalk and curb cuts were also replaced.
The project was funded by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services and managed by the Department of Design and Construction. The project began in April 2022 and finished two months ahead of schedule, as the project was originally expected to be finished in September.
Chief Administrative Judge Joseph A. Zayas stated, “The public deserves court facilities that are secure, efficient and well-maintained and that reflect the dignity and important work of our justice system. We appreciate the careful preparation and hard work that went into this restoration project, with DCAS and DDC making these much-needed courthouse repairs while taking pains to preserve the historic integrity of this stately, landmark building.”
Council Member Kamillah Hanks stated, “I am thrilled to see the completion of the $5.2 million restoration project of the Staten Island Supreme Court building. The much needed renovation of the historic front stairs, handrails and other parts of the façade honors and preserves the landmark status of this building, but also ensures its functionality and public use for many years to come.”
By: Veronica Rose (Veronica is the CityLaw fellow and a New York Law School graduate, Class of 2018.)