The Pulaski County Courthouse’s new safety and security measures take effect today. A single point of entry is being put in place, according to a post on the county’s Facebook page.
That means all visitors have to use the basement entrance underneath the stairs facing Market Street. Additionally, five parking spaces to the south of the courthouse are now reserved for members of the public, meaning employees will have to park elsewhere.
The changes were approved by the county commissioners last month. The immediate reason is the condition of the stairs and sidewalks surrounding the courthouse. The idea is that if patrons are able to park close to the accessible ramp, it will lower the risk of falls.
But beyond that, moving to a single point of entry will allow for the installation of a security checkpoint. County officials are currently researching staffing options, along with grant opportunities for the purchase of metal detectors.
