ELLSWORTH, Maine (WABI) - For more than 100 years, the Hancock County Courthouse has been off State Street in Ellsworth, not just as a home to the law, but a historical staple in the area.

It took months to figure out the right path forward for a new building.

Now, Ellsworth has secured the next step in building the $55 million Hancock County Courthouse on the Merrill Lane Extension off High Street right behind Merrill Furniture.

“Now the DEP has approved our permit by rule for this point two-mile road,” said Charlie Pearce, city manager of Ellsworth.

“This is going to open up an urban section of Ellsworth. I mean right now, I’m looking across one of the most highly trafficked places in Maine.”

This was no easy feat, but community involvement has been key.

After an overwhelming respo

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