Burst water line will keep Dougherty County courthouse closed through much of the week

ALBANY — The Dougherty County Judicial Building will remain closed through at least Wednesday, but the closure could be longer depending on a Tuesday assessment of the facility.

Damage caused by a broken water line could have been worse, but an employee observed water running along the floor early Sunday morning and alerted staff.

“(It was) someone from the call center, they’re there 24/7,” said Dougherty County Public Information Officer Wendy Howell. “Apparently this person was taking a walk-break on the second floor and saw water coming out from under the door.

“A water line in the building that fed a coffee maker machine blew out at the coffee pot and flooded the floor.”

Cleaning staff removed standing water, and heat has been turned on at a high level to help dry carpets, Howell said.

All court activity has been canceled until at least through Wednesday.

“I don’t know how this is going to impact trials we have scheduled,” Howell said. “Worst-case scenario is we won’t be able to open the building back up until next week.”

Signs and Dougherty Sheriff’s Office personnel are posted at the building to alert the public to the closure.

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