Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Alberta government is investing more than $6 million to strengthen security at 10 courthouses across the province, with upgrades aimed at improving public safety, emergency response systems and day-to-day court operations.
The improvements will be carried out at courthouses in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, Lethbridge, Drumheller, Fort McMurray, St. Paul, Pincher Creek, Alexis, Canmore and Cochrane.
According to the provincial government, the planned upgrades will focus on controlling building access, modernizing security technology, enhancing emergency systems and improving designated areas used for prisoner movement. The measures are intended to provide a safer environment for judges, court employees, peace officers, members of the public and others accessing court services.
Justice Minister and Attorney General Mickey Amery said the investment would help modernize courthouse security infrastructure and support the safe delivery of justice services throughout Alberta.
Infrastructure Minister Martin Long said courthouses are essential public facilities and that the planned improvements would help maintain safe and functional buildings capable of serving communities over the coming years.
The initiative follows a planning study completed in 2023, which identified security, health and safety improvements required at courthouses across Alberta.
Several projects are currently progressing through design and procurement, while construction on some upgrades is expected to begin or advance during the current fiscal year. The province anticipates completing the security improvements in 2027.
Chief Justice James A. Hunter underscored the importance of maintaining secure court facilities, stating that people participating in the justice system must be able to attend proceedings without fear of intimidation or threats.
The provincial government said the upgrades are intended to address identified security risks, improve courthouse operations and preserve safe access to justice services across Alberta.
The investment forms part of the province’s efforts to modernize courthouse infrastructure while supporting the security and effective functioning of the justice system.
