Salem, OR – As construction on the ground and basement levels of the Oregon State Capitol approaches its final months, the extensive $595 million renovation project is taking shape. The Capitol’s upgrades, which began in 2016, are set to enhance seismic resilience, improve accessibility, and address long-term maintenance needs. With the final phase of the Capitol Accessibility, Maintenance, and Safety (CAMS) project expected to conclude by September 2025, the public will soon be able to experience a more functional and secure building.
The renovation project has been monumental, involving several years of work aimed at preserving Oregon’s iconic Capitol while modernizing its infrastructure. One of the most significant aspects of the renovation is the installation of 160 base isolators beneath the Capitol’s foundation. These base isolators will allow the Capitol to better withstand the impacts of a major earthquake, including potential seismic events from the Cascadia subduction zone, one of the most active fault lines in the country.
In addition to seismic upgrades, the ground and basement levels of the Capitol are undergoing significant transformations. These changes aim to improve accessibility for all visitors, including the installation of new hearing rooms, a café, and upgraded facilities for journalists and lobbyists. The revamped spaces will also feature an enhanced layout designed to make the building more functional for its daily operations.
Notably, the renovation is not just about structural changes; it also embraces the artistic and cultural diversity of Oregon. As part of the project, new artwork has been commissioned from immigrant, Indigenous, Black, and other artists of color. This inclusion of diverse perspectives serves as a visual representation of Oregon’s complex and varied history, offering a broader narrative through the Capitol’s spaces.
While the project’s interior work is on track to be completed in the coming months, exterior improvements will continue into 2026. However, the public will get the chance to experience the renovated central sections of the Capitol, including the rotunda, in September 2025.
For Oregonians and visitors alike, the renovated Capitol promises to be a blend of historical preservation and modern design, standing as both a symbol of the state’s past and its future. As the renovation nears completion, all eyes will be on the Capitol as it prepares to open its doors to the public once again, offering a glimpse into the next chapter of its storied history.
