FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why does the Capitol need restoration?
What is the recent history and current status of any plans for restoring the Capitol?
How much would it cost to restore the Capitol?
How would the restoration project be paid for?
Why have these issues not been addressed sooner?
Would a restoration project occur in phases?
Can new mechanical systems be built within the existing Capitol footprint?
How can I show my support for preserving the Minnesota State Capitol?
Why does the Capitol need restoration?
While beautiful from the outside, the inner workings of this 102-year-old building are deteriorating or obsolete. Some specifics include:
• Air quality throughout the building is poor
• Air handling equipment is at least 40 years old
• Mechanical and electrical systems are energy inefficient
• Humidity control is inadequate
• Smoke detection, fire alarm and sprinkler systems are inadequate
• Security safeguards are deficient
• Building code compliance is outdated
• Accessibility for persons with disabilities is extremely difficult, or impossible
• Water infiltration from a leaking roof is damaging the structure and interior finishes
• Substantial rainfall or rapid snowmelt causes lower-level flooding.
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What is the recent history and current status of any plans for restoring the Capitol?
A 2001 pre-design study, by Miller Dunwiddie Associates, revealed many of the issues mentioned above. The study also acknowledged the need for additional space for visitors and employees and the need to preserve the historical integrity of the building.
The State Legislature in 2005 appropriated $2.4 million for the repair and restoration of the Capitol dome and for continued design work on a restoration plan.
An evaluation committee selected the architectural partnership of Hammel Green Abrahamson (HGA) and Schooley Caldwell Associates to begin a schematic design of the Capitol restoration based on the 2001 pre-design. The proposed schematic design, which is 55 percent complete, includes:
• Restoration of the Capitol building
• Solutions to security vulnerabilities
• An underground expansion that would be used as temporary office space during the Capitol
restoration and, afterward, for offices, visitor services, a large assembly hall, television studios
and storage
• “Found space” in existing areas in the basement are currently underutilized, but would be
converted into usable space when renovated
• New mechanical vaults – large underground rooms that isolate equipment from the main building
and allow for easy maintenance
• Handicapped accessible entrances, hearing rooms, chambers, and bathrooms
• Updated life/safety (fire and smoke detectors and emergency exits) and mechanical systems
• Water infiltration corrective measures.
The 2007 Legislature appropriated $250,000 for a facilitated working group to explore “as many options as feasible relating to renovation of the Capitol and related Capitol complex buildings.” This working group is meeting periodically throughout this summer and fall to consider design alternatives.
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How much would it cost to restore the Capitol?
The cost of restoring the Capitol will depend on the final design and the timing of construction. Restoration based on the proposed schematic design has an estimated cost of $270 million in 2007 dollars.
Time is a costly premium. With the current schematic design, construction costs would escalate approximately $20 million each year the project is postponed.
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How would the restoration project be paid for?
Typically, major state improvements are funded through bonding by the Legislature. The bonds are paid off over time through the State’s general fund, which is funded primarily through tax money.
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Why have these issues not been addressed sooner?
Over the years, immediate needs have been addressed through “quick fixes,” while the deficiencies today necessitate a long-term, comprehensive solution.
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Would a restoration project occur in phases?
Yes, the Capitol restoration project – regardless of the design approach – could be phased to minimize its impact on people using the building, particularly during legislative sessions. The current schematic design envisions a three-phase, six-year restoration process.
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Can new mechanical systems be built within the existing Capitol footprint?
If code compliant mechanical systems are replaced within the footprint of the existing building, the equipment would utilize the entire basement, part of the ground floor and a portion of the attic. This option would eliminate all basement offices (a work area with more employees than all of the other floors combined).
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How can I show my support for preserving the Minnesota State Capitol?
Preserving this important building – your building – means equipping it for today and safeguarding it for tomorrow. You can show your support by contacting your state legislators. Visit http://www.senate.leg.state.mn.us and http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us to find out who represents you.
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Have a question regarding the Minnesota State Capitol Restoration Project?
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