State reopens Capitol's south side entrances

First phase of project finished

The south side entrances to Missouri's Capitol have been reopened. They are expected to stay open through the Jan. 9 inauguration activities and the 2017 legislative session, which runs through May 12.

The Office of Administration announced Thursday the first phase of the $40 million Capitol renovations project is finished, more than two weeks ahead of schedule.

"We are incredibly pleased that Phase I of this project has gone as smoothly as it has and is wrapping up earlier than anticipated," OA Commissioner Doug Nelson said in a news release, noting the Capitol renovations have been a priority in recent years for lawmakers and the Nixon administration.

"The ongoing construction project will ensure that the historic structure is preserved so it can continue to be enjoyed by generations to come."

Lawmakers in 2015 budgeted $40 million for Capitol repairs, to bring the building's sub-structure back to serviceable condition after years of water infiltration and to address the deteriorating exterior stonework.

The project design work began in 2015, and the construction started last spring.

"The state employees, project consultants and contractors involved with a project of this scale have truly stepped up to the plate and delivered," Cathy Brown, OA's Facilities Management, Design and Construction director, said.

"I am so appreciative their efforts have allowed us to reach this landmark in time for upcoming events."

The Capitol was finished in 1917, and the renovations project is intended to extend the building's useful life and improve its overall appearance, structural stability and water shedding capacity.

The project's just-finished first phase included:

Renovation and repair of the Capitol's exterior stone terraces, south and east steps, and the east and west carriage drives.

Installation of a new waterproofing membrane and repairs to the concrete substructure that had deteriorated over the years because of water penetration.

Stone work to waterproof the governor's upper terrace on the north side and general repair work on all the terraces, including replacing or repairing damaged stone, concrete support beams and slab, storm drains, waterproofing membranes and joint materials.

The second phase is set to begin late next summer and be complete sometime in 2020.

Phase 2 - which also is part of the $40 million project - will include:

Renovation and repair of the exterior stone facades and the dome.

Faade work to repair stonework cracks and open joints, and to make sure all stones are anchored securely and cleaned.

Replacement of stone pavers and edge stones on the North Plaza (north of the Capitol Drive) and adjacent sidewalks, as well as the sidewalks and stairs directly off the north drive leading to the Governor's Portico.

Repairs to the North Plaza retaining wall.

Repairs for the Centaur Fountain's pool rim and edge stones.

Removal and/or replacement of the uplights and warning lights on the upper dome.

Removal and waterproofing of the terrace level balustrades and the repair or renovation of balustrade lighting.