DERIDDER — After more than two years of renovation work, the historic Beauregard Parish Courthouse reopened on Tuesday, with both judges briefly sharing the bench before initiating proceedings.

Judges Martha Ann O’Neal and C. Kerry Anderson introduced members of the state bar and the public to the courtroom, whose original dome was recreated and opened, along with an original balcony overlooking the courtroom.

“This is a wonderful moment of relief and of pride to at last be here holding court,” O’Neal said. “And I am very proud that the citizens of our parish chose to renovate this historic building.”

While construction began in May 2015, O’Neal said, planning for renovations to extend both wings of the building began in the fall of 2012 when residents voted to dedicate tax money for the project.

O’Neal said that while there was some discussion of whether to build a new courthouse, it was ultimately decided that a renovation project would be more cost-effective.

“I’m so glad that it was, because buildings like this courthouse just cannot be replicated,” Anderson said. “I believe that every citizen should be able to look upon their courthouse with a sense of pride, and I think that is exactly what has been accomplished here.”

Both judges said their predecessors, H.I. “Buddy” Stewart and Stuart Kay, deserved credit for beginning the push to obtain funding for renovations in the 1990s. O’Neal and Anderson were elected in 2009.

In addition to the expansion, renovations include a wheelchair ramp at the rear entryway and an elevator, as well as increased security measures. A public open house will be in October.

(Pamela Sleezer/American Press)