Restoration Work Underway At South Dakota Capitol Building

Typically, after the legislative session ends in Pierre, things at the South Dakota Capitol building slow down considerably.

Not this year.

A large scaffolding system is being installed throughout the rotunda as phase two of the repair and restoration project commences. This phase includes restoration of plaster, painting, and lighting in the Rotunda and South Entry.

Conrad Schmitt Studios will complete the cleaning, painting, and restoration of the plaster and artwork. The updated lighting system, designed by West Plains Engineering/RDG, will be installed by Ferding Electric.

The work is expected to take approximately six months to complete.

The Capitol will remain open during this time, but visitors are advised to avoid the construction areas for their safety and the safety of contractors.

The Capitol was originally constructed between 1905 and 1910 at a cost of nearly $1 million.

It was first renovated in 1989 for the state's centennial, which restored much of the building and its decoration, including the tile floor, to its original appearance. In 2013, the stained glass throughout the building was restored as part of South Dakota's 125th Anniversary celebrations.

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