Texas State Capitol building to be renovated

The State Capitol building in Austin, Texas is going to be the target of a major repair and renovation project. Craftsmen will be setting up scaffolding to reach the Capitol building’s dome to complete restoration work that goes beyond the scope of routine painting of reachable areas.

Originally built in 1882, the dome is made of iron pillars, wood and galvanized sheet metal. It was last painted in 1992; since then, it has undergone a fair bit of damage from the elements. Asbestos has to be removed from the eighth level walkway because it is blocking the drainage system and causing water damage on the seventh floor. The renovations are expected to cost between $2.25 million and $2.5 million, with work to be completed before the 2011 legislative session.

For the full story, go to The Austin Chronicle.