SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A public hearing is being held on the proposal of a new lease space for the Springfield Regional Justice Center set to replace the Roderick Ireland Courthouse. State officials decided to pursue a new courthouse after years of complaints about mold and other health issues associated with the current courthouse, located at 50 State Street in downtown Springfield. In November, the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) issued a request for proposals for properties in the Springfield area that would be a suitable location for a new state-owned courthouse. They received nine different proposals, however after each was evaluated, none was chosen to go forward. State now plans to lease space for new Roderick Ireland Courthouse in Springfield State officials changed their plan to solicit proposals from private developers, to either construct a new facility or renovate an existing space that can be used for a courthouse. The state would then take out a long-term lease on the property. According to DCAMM, this could result in a new courthouse being ready two years sooner; meaning a possible six-year timetable, rather than the current eight-year estimate. A news release from Springfield Mayor Sarno stated that he has reviewed the project proposal along with his economic development staff and said that he fully supports it. Mayor Sarno is set to provide comments during the DCAMM public hearing as well as continuing to advocate for a North End riverfront site. The Springfield Regional Justice Center Project public hearing will be held virtually on Thursday at 3 p.m. via Zoom with members of DCAMM and the state's Trial Court. Those interested are invited to comment on the proposed project at the public hearing or submit written comments to [email protected] by January 11th at 4 p.m. Mayor Sarno states, “I have made it very clear; I am in full support of the relocation of a new Roderick Ireland Courthouse to the north riverfront area.  This would be a game changer for the City of Springfield.  It brings to light development in the north end of our riverfront and most importantly, it brings with it some additional housing to the city, which is desperately needed.  Also, this proposal includes restaurants and boutique shops, along with a proposed marina.  This project would also create hundreds of construction jobs and a number of permanent jobs.  This project also addresses major issues concerning public transportation and parking.  Furthermore, this project in the north riverfront could be completed in 3-4 years vs 7-10 years at the current site. I will continue to advocate for the project that is in the best interest for our Springfield.” Local News Headlines Chicopee Police arrested 70 people in December State Auditor finds inconsistencies in police training Springfield officers save woman from tracks within seconds from high-speed train Owl rescued on New Year’s Eve in Williamsburg after being struck by vehicle WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.