Courthouse adds handicapped parking

LISBON — More handicapped parking has been added at the Columbiana County Courthouse as part of its renovation project.

Commissioner Jim Hoppel said the four spaces were created at the direction of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which lent the county $3.5 million for the entire project.

The new spaces are just south of the courthouse, and are as close as possible to the ramp entrance for those with disabilities at the front of the building.

The parking spots are marked, and one can handle a vehicle with a wheelchair lift.

Signs also warn violators face a minimum fine of $250. There are two parking spaces for sheriff’s department vehicles beside the handicapped spots.

There is one handicapped parking space in front of the courthouse on Market Street, along with two spaces used by deputies to transport prisoners. That handicapped spot will be used by deputies.

Signs will be erected to direct people to the handicapped spaces.

Hoppel said workers in the county engineer’s office designed the new handicapped parking area.