Legislative Building Skylight Restoration

DES is restoring the original character of the House and Senate chambers’ ceilings.
DES employee checking skylight placement in Legislative Building attic

When the Legislative Building opened in 1928, the ceilings above the House and Senate chambers housed glass panels. These skylights brought that admitted natural light into the rooms below.  

In the 1970s, the state removed these skylights to lower the risk of earthquake damage.  

Now, modern construction methods make it possible to restore the skylights. 

As the Legislative Building approaches its centennial celebration in 2028, this project will also: 

  • Improve the chambers’ appearance
  • Upgrade audio and video equipment 
  • Replace existing lights with energy-efficient LEDs
  • Add contemporary fire safety and security features 

Cost: $8.64 million 

Funding source: 2025-27 state capital budget 

Phase: Construction 

Timeline: June - December 2026