Posted on 02/25/2007 12:22:21 PM PST by SandRat
BAGHDAD — Construction workers are busy building an addition to the Kadhimiyah Courthouse in western Baghdad.
A new, one-story, 427 square-meter building is under construction that will expand the overall facility by 25 percent.
The Criminal Investigation Court includes three judges, two prosecutors and 11 judicial investigators. The Personal Status Court has three judges. About 300 litigants attend the court daily.
The new building, which adjoins the existing facility, will be used by both the Al Fajr and Atifiya city councils. Al Fajr chairman, Mr. Ali, said the new structure is a great addition to the community.
“This facility demonstrates what first-class workmanship is all about. It’s excellent from the foundation up,” Ali said. “I’m very pleased with the contractor’s efforts.”
Lt. Col. Glen Masset, commander, 9th Engineer Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, tracks ongoing community improvements in northwest Baghdad.
“These projects are important. They’re visible and they’re lasting,” Masset said. “When people walk or drive by, they know their government is investing in their community, trying to make things better. It serves as a constant reminder their government is working.”
Joseph Nolin, whose U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office oversees the work, said, “All these projects mean local construction jobs. The average Iraqi wants the same things we all do … to provide for their families as they help rebuild their country. They want opportunities for their children. They’re concerned about the safety and well being of their loved ones. This project strengthens local governance. It provides a facility so local leaders can gather to make decisions bettering their neighborhoods. It’s another step in getting this country back on its feet.”
Currently the project is 80 percent complete and should be finished by May. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed or is overseeing 11 courthouse projects in Baghdad Province.
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