Built in 1923-1927, the historic Legislative Building is actually just one building of the “Capitol Group” designed by architect Wilder and White as the winning entry for a 1918 capitol design competition. But to many, it is the most renowned and significant of the Capitol Group.

Beginning in 1998, the state began a series of projects intended to rehabilitate the building for the next 75 years. Under the leadership of the state Department of General Administration, the first portions of the work included some repointing and waterproofing of the exterior sandstone façade to mitigate moisture infiltration.

Next came reconditioning of the north stairs and waterproofing the structure below. Now it is time for the major part of the rehabilitation.

At the conclusion of the 2002 legislative session, the building was vacated for the first time since its opening. Over the course of the following two years, several aspects of the building will be renewed or updated, including:

• seismic upgrades to the dome structures;
• all new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, communications and data systems;
• exterior waterproofing, cleaning and repairs;
• an ADA-compliant and pedestrian-friendly link from the South Portico;
• reprogramming of the first floor for more public space; and
• repairs to damage caused by the 2001 Nisqually earthquake.

When re-opened for the 2005 legislative session, citizens of Washington will once again be able to experience the grandeur of the building.

PROJECT PARTICIPANTS

Contractor: M.A. Mortenson Co., 14719 N.E. 29th Place, Bellevue, WA 98007, (425) 895-9000 Architect: NBBJ in association with Einhorn Yaffee Prescott, 111 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104, (206) 223-5555

Other Participants
Einhorn Yaffee & Prescott (historical consultant)	Swenson Say Faget (seismic engineer)	Wiss Janney Elsner (materials conservation)
Shannon & Wilson (geotechnical)	Lerch Bates (elevator consultants)