Federal Courthouse – Did You Know?

The Sacramento Federal Courthouse (Robert T. Matsui United States Courthouse) is one of Sacramento’s most interesting high-rises in downtown. Built in 1999 at a cost of $134 million, its southern exterior wow’s you with its curved glass and attention to detail which is beautiful.

South side of the Sacramento Federal Courthouse

At 350 feet tall, this building looks dynamic when seen from the south on I Street, but if you’re in the Railyards or driving south on I-5 and viewing the north side of the building, the same building appears plain and does not even resemble the same structure. What you don't realize from the Fed Court design, is that the north side was built to be expanded- thus the plain facade.  The north facade is basic and simple to allow for the expansion in the future.  The footings, and the columns supporting the rear plaza and underground parking are huge to accommodate the additional loads for future development. At this time, no date is known for the courthouses expansion, just thought I would pass-on this fascinating info.

North side of the Sacramento Federal Courthouse. The left side of the
photo showing corner footing for future expansion.

North side of the Sacramento Federal Courthouse.  Looking down from above
the footings for future expansion can be seen in the corners of the parking lot.