The Orange County Government Center, The Center of Controversy

When the Orange County Government Center was built in 1967, it was met with a great deal of criticism.  Designed by celebrated Modernist Architect, Paul Rudolph in 1963, this structure has had its fair share of controversy and problems. Located in Goshen, NY, among the Federal and Victorian style homes and businesses, stands this Brutalist architectural style structure that many call a monstrosity. However, architectural historians say its protruding cubes and ribbed concrete facade, represent Rudolph at his best. 

Early criticism of its design was just the start of the building’s problems.  Over the years the building developed several structural issues including multiple roof leaks, a faulty ventilation system and more recently mold.  In September 2011, the building sustained heavy flood damage due to Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee and as a result, was completely shut down.

Shortly after its shutdown, the debate began as to whether it should be renovated or demolished to build an entirely new structure.  Some architects and The Paul Rudolph Foundation, started a campaign to preserve the building for its historical value.  Sean Khorsandi, a director of the foundation said “I would easily identify it as one of Rudolph’s top 10.”   In October 2011, the World Monuments Fund also added the Government Center to its list of worldwide cultural heritage sites at risk. 

Others who favor a new structure (probably a more traditional style) contend that even at a higher initial cost, a new building would be more effective and efficient.  One county legislator called the present building “A world monument to inefficiency.”  During the last year and a half each side presented their own renovation estimates ranging from $35 million to $68 million.  But those committed to preserving this architectural landmark insisted that a renovation would be less expensive than any of the construction plans proposed by the county. 

The long heated debate finally came to an end this past February, when a group of bipartisan Orange County lawmakers came to the defense of this 46-year-old building and passed a proposal to renovate it by a 15-6 vote. Lawmakers felt the urgency to act before a March 12 deadline to avoid losing $2.7 million in federal funds, to repair the water damage the building sustained, as a result of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee.

This vote is a victory for renovation advocates, historians, preservationists as well as all the local businesses that are looking forward to activity returning to the downtown area.  Love it or hate it, it appears that Paul Rudolph’s architectural vision will be revitalized and continue to be the home of Orange County’s government offices.