Minnesota’s 107-year-old capitol building restoration completed a highly visible phase recently when its refurbished golden finial was unveiled. This phase is part of a multi-year renovation that is expected to cost over $200 million if fully funded. The current bond allocation of $44 million includes replacement of water-damaged steps and a tunnel under University Avenue will make it easier to deliver supplies to the Capitol without pulling trucks up to the building.
Other problems that must be addressed in future phases are a crumbling façade, leaky windows, and peeling paint. Cass Gilbert designed the building to resemble St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. In December, the Minnesota Department of Administration will submit its estimate for how much money it will need to continue the restoration efforts next year.
(http://www.startribune.com/politics/statelocal/162488086.html)
