The Douglas County Courthouse has largely closed to the public for at least two weeks because of the coronavirus.

Limited proceedings will continue through April 19 at the Douglas County Court, the Omaha Douglas Public Building Commission announced last Friday. The Omaha Douglas Civic Center has restricted access to the general public.

All trials, preliminary hearings, sentences and other criminal matters have been continued. Arraignments and felony bond settings for incarcerated people will use a videoconferencing system.

Nebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice Mike Heavican agreed to the request made by numerous state, county and city officials to limit access to the courtrooms in the Hall of Justice and Civic Center. The request was approved for two weeks, and Heavican has indicated that he would consider a further extension of restrictions if they are warranted.

City Prosecutor Matthew Kuhse said many members of the criminal justice system in Omaha appreciate the decision to close the courthouse.

“People who have business with the courts – seeking a protection order, attending their protection order hearing, filing of small claims, things of that nature – will be allowed in,” Kuhse said.

Paul Cohen, administrator of the Omaha Douglas Public Building Commission, asked anyone who doesn’t have to go to the courthouse to stay away.

“We’re asking that the person or persons scheduled to be at a hearing or a court proceeding should be the only ones attending to limit the number of people coming into the building,” Cohen said.

Public meetings will still be held in the Omaha Douglas Civic Center, subject to enforcement of social distancing regulations by building security.

“There are some mandatory public meetings that government has to hold, and they will go on as scheduled in this building,” Cohen said at a news conference held Friday at the Civic Center. “If they are public meetings, the public will be allowed to attend.”

City and county offices will remain open, but public access will be restricted. Walk-ins will not be permitted. Each department and agency in the Civic Center has their own policies.

“We have already seen many departments initiate work-from-home schedules that dramatically reduced the number of employees in the building on a daily basis,” Cohen said. “Similarly, the growing capability to accomplish city and county business online further reduces the need for in-person contact in our building.”

The Omaha City Prosecutor’s Office has also closed to the public. A limited staff will be in the office to handle essential matters, including arraignments.  City prosecutors will appear by video, Kuhse said. He said he believes these measures will reduce foot traffic in the building.