The Washington County Courthouse in Abingdon. Courtesy of Washington County.

The Washington County Courthouse in Abingdon has been temporarily closed following an air quality study that raised concerns about the presence of “microbial growth,” according to a news release from the county.

The results of the test, which was conducted Friday, were received Monday. A decision was made to close the courthouse on Main Street downtown at 12:30 p.m. Further tests were being conducted Monday, the release states.

The plan is to reopen the building Thursday morning, although that could change based on the latest test results, according to the release.

County officials said they are committed to ensuring that the courthouse is safe before reopening and they appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation.

The historic building, which sits atop Courthouse Hill, was built in 1867 and 1868. It was recently renovated and houses Virginia’s 28th Judicial Circuit courts.

Susan Cameron is a reporter for Cardinal News. She has been a newspaper journalist in Southwest Virginia...