Construction of the courthouse, which is expected to open in early 2023, is about 30% complete, according to the spokesperson.

“The topping-out of the building is a wonderful milestone,” Chief Judge John A. Jarvey of Des Moines said in a prepared statement. “We look forward to seeing the building clad and transforming it to a place that serves the needs of the citizens of Iowa and elsewhere for many decades to come.”

The new courthouse is being built on land that originally was home to the Des Moines Coliseum and later the Riverfront YMCA.

The current courthouse and annex have seven courtrooms and 12 judges’ chambers. The new courthouse, when completed in fall 2022, will include 13 judges’ chambers and nine courtrooms that will include enough space for family members, victims, the public and others to watch proceedings.

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