The new $8.5 million combined courthouse project for the 22nd Judicial District and Montezuma county has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Colorado Underfunded Courts program.

Project owners rep Monty Guiles said the funds will be used to add custom interior design to the four courtrooms to create an atmosphere of judicial gravitas.

“That was cut out during the process to get the price down. Thanks to this grant, we can bring it back,” he said. “They will be nicely trimmed out in a way befitting a courtroom.”

Each courtroom will be fitted with acoustic paneling, and decorative hardwood and paneling, including in the entryways.