The work will update the aging Capitol's infrastructure, add new safety features, such as automatic sprinklers, update accessibility, improve security, and enhance spaces for visitors and staff.
Donna Farmer is an architect who is leading the long-awaited $291.5 million renovation project. She gave a preliminary timeline Thursday — cautioning that it's not set in stone, so to speak.
"We expect the Capitol to close by the August and reopen in 2029. However, the timeline may change if additional needs are discovered," she said. "To ensure safety, parts of the Capitol grounds will be closed to visitors during the renovation period. However, many areas will remain open, including the floral clock, the flower beds and green spaces along Capitol Avenue, the COVID-19 Memorial, and the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument."
State offices located inside the Capitol will be relocated to offices in Frankfort. The governor's office will be housed both in the old Governor's Mansion and in the state office building across the street.
Gov. Andy Beshear says work is underway to create a space where the rallies and gatherings typically held in the Capitol Rotunda can take place while the work is ongoing.