WI State Capitol Restoration

The Wisconsin Capitol Restoration Project stands as a testament to a 13-year collaborative endeavor aimed at restoring the State’s Capitol to its former glory while ensuring its efficiency as the seat of government. The restoration journey started with the north wing and continued in a counterclockwise progression, encompassing each wing, the dome, rotunda, grand stairs, exterior grounds, and culminating with the installation of the innovative “Wisconsin Eye” video system.

In late 1980, a comprehensive restoration plan was crafted to revive the Capitol’s original splendor while optimizing its functionality for state governance. JP Cullen secured the initial phases through a competitive bidding process and subsequently earned selection through negotiated contracts for the remaining scope.

Throughout the project’s lifespan, a concerted effort was made to repurpose materials wherever feasible, honoring the Capitol’s heritage. Remarkably, the entire undertaking was completed a remarkable 16 months ahead of schedule, a testament to the collaborative approach taken during the preconstruction phase, where design and engineering intricacies were meticulously addressed.

Despite the scale of the restoration, disruptions were minimized, and stringent safety and security protocols were upheld to ensure the well-being of the thousands of workers and visitors who frequented the Capitol daily.