Washington's Supreme Court Justices will celebrate their return to the Capitol Campus with a reception at the Temple of Justice on November 22. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place from 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Attendees will include members from all branches of Washington government.
The court resumed operations at the Temple of Justice on October 28 after a two-year renovation project costing $33.8 million. This renovation aimed to update the 112-year-old building, which opened in 1912 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Department of Enterprise Services (DES) undertook extensive updates during this renovation. These included replacing aged systems for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; improving lighting; upgrading plumbing fixtures; and enhancing security systems. These changes aim to increase energy efficiency, protect historic features and documents, and improve indoor conditions for visitors and staff.
Attendees can access the Temple through its north-side entrance facing the Law Enforcement Memorial but must undergo security screening involving metal detectors and bag inspections. State law prohibits weapons inside the building as per RCW 9.41.305.
Visitor parking is available near Winged Victory Monument and at the Visitor Information Center for $3 per hour. Inquiries can be directed to the Parking Office at 360-725-0030.
Note that Water Street remains closed due to ongoing construction work.
For further information, Wendy K. Ferrell (Judicial Communications Manager) can be contacted at 360-705-5331 or via email at Wendy.Ferrell@courts.wa.gov, while Lorrie Thompson (Communications Officer) is available at 360-705-5347 or Lorrie.Thompson@courts.wa.gov.