Minnesota’s capitol building, designed by Cass Gilbert, marks milestone in extensive restoration

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.
Sept. 5, 2012

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)

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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