Workers set up barriers Monday around the Cole County Courthouse as a landscape improvement project is set to begin.
Earlier this month, Cole County commissioners authorized the landscaping project, which will include reworking the sidewalks as well as moving benches and trees to open the sidewalks for pedestrians. Irrigation, electrical and stormwater work also will be done along with improvements to the courthouse foundation.
The work will be done along the Monroe and High streets sides of the building.
GBH Builders of Jefferson City was awarded a contract of $321,920. The money will come out of the county's capital projects fund.
Beginning today, the public will enter and exit the courthouse at the High Street doors. When the Monroe Street side of the project is complete, the High Street doors will be closed and entrance and exit will be through the Monroe Street side until the project is complete.
Visitors will still have to go through a security check before going upstairs to the courtrooms and offices.
The commission wants the work done in time for the county's 200th anniversary celebration next year.