July 3, 2012

Capitol Campus Update

Jets of water, not bottle rockets, will shoot skyward over the Capitol Campus on July 4 as the Department of Enterprise Services turns back on the Tivoli Fountain.

The popular ornamental water feature has been left dry for about two years for budgetary reasons. The state has avoided operating and maintenance costs by shutting off the fountain, one of numerous conservation and cost-cutting measures on the capitol grounds since the economic downturn.

The department is turning the fountain back on now to prevent deterioration of the seals, joints and other structural components, which can develop cracks and leaks when exposed to the air for a prolonged period of time. Initial maintenance and testing shows the fountain to be in good condition. It will be emptied for additional maintenance and caulking later this month, after which it is scheduled to operate until Labor Day.

The fountain is a replica of the famous Roman-style fountain located in Tivoli Park, Copenhagen, Denmark, which in turn replicates elements of a famous fountain in Tivoli, Italy. The fountain was donated to the state by the Olympia-Tumwater Foundation and dedicated in April 1953.

Fireworks will be shot off over the campus on July 22 as part of Capital Lakefair, which starts on July 18.

Learn about other upcoming campus events on the new Enterprise Services Facebook page, which will go "live" later this month.