Renovation work on the second phase of a long-term project at the Kentucky State Capitol Building commences soon
Kentucky Capitol Dome Renovation: A Comprehensive Upgrade with Historic Challenges
The Capitol Campus Renovation, a multi-year, multi-million-dollar project, is currently underway in Frankfort. The renovation includes a significant focus on the State Capitol dome, which has been without major work since 1955 [1].
The project, part of a larger $291.5 million renovation, aims to modernise the building, making it safer, more energy efficient, and more comfortable. However, the renovation of this enormous old building, with every rule and regulation for a historic building applied, presents unique challenges [1].
The structure of the Capitol dome is being completely rebuilt, including the replacement of 80-year-old terracotta tiles, installation of waterproofing, structural repairs, and removal of algae and other organic materials [1]. Interestingly, only one group in the world can produce the tiles for the Capitol dome in a way that complies with historic rules and regulations [1].
The construction of the Capitol dome renovation is expected to be finished in 2023 [2]. However, the timeline and cost may be impacted by backorder issues for materials [3]. Governor Andy Beshear has expressed his expectation that the project will take longer than the original estimate and be more expensive [4].
The renovation addresses decades of wear and tear since the last major renovation over 70 years ago. Efforts include restoration of the Capitol’s facade and infrastructure improvements. The project is described as mammoth and heavily planned, aiming to improve the working environment for legislators and staff without drastically changing the Capitol's appearance [1].
Despite the challenges, legislative leadership is aware of the issues being faced in the Capitol renovation project. All Capitol occupants have either moved out already or will soon, to allow the renovation work to proceed [5]. Upon completion of the dome renovation, upgrades inside the Capitol will begin.
The large scope of the project means that the timeline and budget are subject to change as unforeseen conditions are encountered during construction [1]. Managing historic preservation while upgrading modern systems (energy, safety) can be complex. Procurement and contract management complexities have been noted in related state projects, suggesting oversight and coordination risks that might also affect the renovation [4].
The historic building located next to the Old Capitol, built in 1830, is taking significantly longer than initially thought due to unexpected issues [3]. The Capitol Annex Building, where legislative offices are located, is also part of the renovation project. Two temporary buildings have been erected next to the Capitol Annex for the House and Senate chambers during the Capitol project [1].
In January 2022, $260 million in bond funds were appropriated for Phase 2 of the Capitol Campus Renovation [1]. The project is expected to be completed by January 2029 at the earliest, with the legislature planning to return by that session. However, the completion date and costs could change due to the scale and complexity of the renovation work involved [1].
[1] Kentucky Capitol Campus Renovation
[2] Capitol Campus Renovation timeline
[3] Capitol Campus Renovation updates
[4] State projects procurement and contract management
[5] Capitol occupants moving out for renovation
The Capitol Campus Renovation, a significant project in the arts, finds an ally in the state's finance sector, with $260 million in bond funds allocated for Phase 2. Interestingly, a unique aspect of the project lies in the procurement of terracotta tiles for the Capitol dome, as only one group in Kentucky's industry can produce them to comply with historic preservation rules.
