As communities continue to evolve, government entities are rethinking how to plan, fund and deliver their facilities. From sustainability and long-term efficiency to multipurpose spaces and renewed focus on mental health, 2026 will bring continued innovation in how public projects come to life.
Across the country, Wold’s government team is helping local leaders respond to new challenges while finding ways to make every dollar go further. Here are a few key trends shaping the year ahead.
A slower economy and a cooling of private-sector construction activity are creating new opportunities for public projects. With greater contractor availability and the resulting competitive pricing, along with inflation rates beginning to normalize, 2026 could be a favorable time for government entities to move forward with long-planned improvements. This environment allows communities to invest strategically in long-term infrastructure when market conditions work in their favor.
Key takeaway: Slower economic periods, paired with stabilizing inflation, can create ideal conditions for public entities to build, often stretching budgets further and achieving lasting community value.
Government entities are continuing to place greater emphasis on the long-term performance of their facilities. Design decisions will grow focus on energy efficiency, mechanical upgrades and operational resilience, improvements that reduce lifecycle costs and strengthen day-to-day reliability. Communities are prioritizing strategies that make buildings easier to maintain, more environmentally responsible and better equipped to adapt over time. These efforts help public owners stretch limited budgets while creating facilities that perform well for decades, not just years.
Key takeaway: Prioritizing sustainability and operational efficiency allows communities to make smart, future-focused investments that reduce costs and improve building performance.
Government spaces are increasingly being designed with flexibility in mind. More facilities are collocating functions, such as emergency operations, elections and administrative services, to share infrastructure and reduce redundant space needs. These environments remain active and valuable throughout the day and year-round, supporting multiple users and operational demands under one roof. By integrating public access, transparency and security into a single design, these facilities are able to evolve with community needs over time.
Key takeaway: Designing multipurpose, collocated facilities helps public entities use space more efficiently, reduce duplication and make long-term investments go further.
States and local governments are continuing to recognize the importance of behavioral health care. In 2026, design strategies are supporting both staff wellbeing and the needs of individuals in crisis, from wellness-focused spaces in administrative and public safety buildings to dedicated treatment and recovery areas within correctional environments. While the broader goal is to address mental health needs earlier and more effectively in the community, facilities must still provide safe, appropriate care for those who enter the justice system.
Key takeaway: A comprehensive approach to mental health requires thoughtful design across all government facilities, supporting staff, community needs and individuals in crisis.
Many communities are taking a fresh look at their historic courthouses and civic buildings as they plan long-term facility investments. These projects not only protect architectural heritage but also adapt existing structures for modern accessibility, technology and energy standards. By preserving these community landmarks, local governments are strengthening civic identity while ensuring the buildings remain functional for future generations.
Key takeaway: Revitalizing historic government buildings blends preservation with modernization, supporting both community pride and long-term usability.
In 2026, government design is driven by creativity, practicality and community impact. Whether improving operational efficiency, strengthening mental health support or revitalizing historic spaces, public leaders are finding fresh ways to invest in the places that serve their communities. Wold’s government team remains committed to helping clients plan strategically and create facilities that reflect evolving needs while supporting long-term value.