After years of collaboration with judges and court administrators, along with state and local representatives, County Executive Robert P. Astorino hailed Monday’s opening of the new Family Court branch in Yonkers at the i.Park Hudson Complex at 131 Warburton Avenue. The newly-refurbished 22,775 square feet of space will provide families with a safe, clean and efficient experience during what is for many, a very difficult time in their lives.

“Coming to family court can be overwhelming, even scary, especially when children are involved,” said Astorino. “At the very least, you should feel safe and be comfortable, which is what this new space offers. Add to that the parking and accessibility, and you’ve got a secure and modern experience.”

The streamlined facility will feature separate security-screened entrances for staff, prisoners and the public. That, along with a state of the art technical infrastructure and modern physical plant, will translate into savings of up to $20 million over the life of the lease, for Westchester taxpayers.

“The nature of the work of the Family Court demands the facility be safe and welcoming,” said Justice Alan D. Scheinkman, Administrative Judge for the 9th Judicial District. “It’s gratifying to see the results of much hard work with County Executive Astorino, and to deliver this modern courthouse to the families of Yonkers. I also extend gratitude to my colleagues, Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence K. Marks; Family Court Supervising Judge Kathie E. Davidson; and the staff of both the county and the state Office of Court Administration.”

The court is located adjacent to an office of the county Department of Social Services which serves the needs of many families attending the court, which underscores the convenience and efficiency of the new location.

Among the highlights of the new Yonkers Family Court location:

• This location is in the heart of downtown Yonkers, close to the Metro-North train station, the Yonkers Public Library, and several Bee line bus stops. The site can readily be reached by car via the Saw Mill River Parkway and other routes.

•The new location increases by more than 50 percent the amount of space available to the Family Court, an expansion made possible by reconfiguring the pre-existing DSS operations.

• Family Court personnel has a non-public entrance to the floor. Public access to the Family Court is through the building's common area waiting area, and Family Court patrons pass through two security check points.

• There are three court rooms, three hearing rooms, chambers and offices for judicial support staff, as well as a children's center and attorney-client conference rooms.

• There is ample parking.

Pictured from left, Administrative Judge for the 9th Judicial District Justice Alan D. Scheinkman; Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino and Family Court Supervising Judge Kathie E. Davidson