Construction of the second stage in a multi-year overhaul at Kentucky's State Capitol edifice due to commence
Frankfort's State Capitol Renovation Project Enters Second Phase, Potential Delays Ahead
The Phase 2 Capitol Campus Renovation project in Frankfort, Kentucky, is currently ongoing and on track, but may experience changes in its completion date and cost as the project progresses. The estimated total cost is approximately $291.5 million, with potential increases due to additional work needed. The renovation aims for completion in time for the General Assembly to reconvene in the Capitol for the 2029 regular session starting in January.
This mammoth, complex project focuses on making the Capitol safer, more energy-efficient, and comfortable, addressing over 70 years of wear and tear. Senate President Robert Stivers and project spokespersons confirm the goal remains the reopening by early 2029, but they acknowledge that major renovation projects can face delays and cost adjustments.
An audit of the project has been initiated to address public concerns regarding delays and budget questions, indicating some oversight and scrutiny but nothing that explicitly confirms major hold-ups as of mid-2025. No specific recent bid or contract data publicly shows a disruption in the Capitol Campus renovation itself, though related projects and bid opportunities continue through 2025 in Frankfort.
Upon completion of the dome renovation, upgrades inside the Capitol will begin. 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. The construction of the Capitol dome renovation is expected to be finished this year.
The Capitol, which opened in 1910, has not had major work done on the dome since 1955. Legislative leadership is aware of the issues being faced in the Capitol renovation project. Governor Andy Beshear expects the Capitol renovation project to take longer than the original estimate and be more expensive.
The renovation project involves both the State Capitol and the Capitol Annex Building, where legislative offices are located. Two temporary buildings have been erected next to the Capitol Annex for the House and Senate chambers during the Capitol project. The construction of these temporary buildings for the House and Senate chambers during the Capitol project is not affected by the delays and increased costs of the main renovation project.
An historic building located next to the Old Capitol, built in 1830, is expected to take significantly longer due to unforeseen issues. The Capitol Annex Building, however, is not part of the discussion about delays and increased costs.
In summary, the Phase 2 renovation is proceeding with a target completion by January 2029, but delays or cost increases remain possible as the project evolves, reflecting normal challenges in such large-scale historic building renovations.
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