Government Buildings

Despite ‘stunning’ results, Kansas Statehouse renovation faces cutbacks

Skyrocketing project costs are giving critics fodder on the renovation of the Kansas Statehouse. Recent reports say that restoration of the building, which was completed in 1903, could cost as much as $340 million, triple the amount of early estimates. http://www.kansascity.com/2011/03/31/2766870/plan-boosts-cost-of-kansas-capitol.html
April 6, 2011
Skyrocketing project costs are giving critics fodder on the renovation of the Kansas Statehouse. Recent reports say that restoration of the building, which was completed in 1903, could cost as much as $340 million, triple the amount of early estimates. http://www.kansascity.com/2011/03/31/2766870/plan-boosts-cost-of-kansas-capitol.html Since renovation kicked off in 2001, reports the Kansas City Star, “results have often been stunning, with offices, committee rooms and hallways returning to rich colors and ornate patterns of decades past. The work also is giving the Statehouse modern heating, air-conditioning, water and fire safety systems. Legislators’ offices are less cramped, and better meeting rooms make events more accessible to the public.” Like many states, though, Kansas faces a budget crisis that is forcing significant budget cuts. Critics charge that the statehouse renovation is too extravagant given the sacrifices that Kansans face.

About the Author

Drew Ballensky

Drew Ballensky is general manager of Duro-Last Roofing, Inc.’s central U.S. facility in Iowa and company spokesman for Duro-Last’s cool roofing, sustainability and architectural education programs. He is past-president of the Chemical Fabrics and Film Association and chairman of CFFA’s Vinyl Roofing Division. Drew earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial technology from the University of Northern Iowa and master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University. Drew has over 29 years experience in business and industry in various engineering and managerial capacities. He has worked in the U.S. and Canadian operations for a major international manufacturer of pre-engineered steel buildings, was a financial analyst with a major athletic apparel manufacturer and was an owner of a general contracting company.
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