WATCH: Former Daily Herald building demo continues this week

The demolition of the former Daily Herald newspaper building continues this week. The Maury County Commission authorized the demolition of the building while simultaneously voting to approve the construction of a new justice center at the site.

The Daily Herald staff now operates at a new location, 609 Garden St., after working remotely following the sale of the building to local realtor Larry Hubbell in the spring of 2021, then the building's final sale to the county soon after last year.

More:Commissioners break ground on future site of Maury County Judicial Center

The $32 million Maury County Justice Center will house new court rooms, judge chambers and administrative space to accommodate growth at the Maury County historic courthouse, a focal point and 7th Street landmark in downtown Columbia.

More:Daily Herald building coming down after 54-year history: 'This is the best way forward'

The aging courthouse has been bursting at the seams for years as court proceedings and the expanding justice department continue to grow as the county grows in population. Another court annex to be located at 1115 South Main will allow the judicial branch of Maury County government to operate more smoothly, leaders say.

The demolition should be completed by the end of this week Harness LLC representatives say.