A new security entrance to the Bedford County Courthouse will open Monday and will be the only public entrance and exit to the courthouse complex, county officials said in a news release.

The entrance is located at the rear of the building on the second floor, directly across from the upper level of the parking garage.

The entrance will be manned by county security personnel who will conduct security screening on individuals and their belongings entering the courthouse using a magnetometer, X-ray scanner and metal detection wands.

The courthouse is the seat of nearly all government offices in the county and efforts to boost security have been ongoing, according to county officials.

“From obtaining a hunting license to conducting a high-profile criminal trial, the courthouse is the center of government and the justice system for Bedford County,” stated President Judge Travis Livengood.

The courthouse contains all county government offices in addition to two common pleas courtrooms and Central Court. More than 165 employees work in 24 offices within the Bedford County Courthouse. Bedford County averages more than 1,500 cases per year across its criminal, civil and family court divisions.

In addition to the security entrance, the county has updated its security camera system, installed duress alarms and public emergency announcement systems, secured several office areas, improved security in inmate holding areas and added a perimeter fence to the courtyard.

“Courthouse security for the public and employees is a priority, and it is an ongoing process of improvement,” Bedford County Commissioner Alan Frederick said.