Old County Courthouse, now the Monterey County East West Wing
168 W. Alisal St., Salinas, co.monterey.ca.us
Last August, Monterey County officials shared with the public the gleaming makeover of the Old County Courthouse, a gorgeous example of the Art Deco style from the period when the building was constructed in 1937. The three-story building now called the East West Wing was designed by renowned local artist Joseph “Jo” Jacinto Mora. It includes beautiful statues, bas reliefs, a fountain (now a planter), bronze artwork and interior design pieces that are worthy of a visit. Amazingly, some wanted to tear down the aging building around two decades ago, but thankfully wiser heads prevailed. It took 15 years and $40 million to restore the building. Based on the artistic and historic significance of Mora’s creations, it was worth the wait – and the expense – to save what is now a crown jewel for the county.