SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon State Capitol’s extensive renovation project is entering its final months, with construction on the ground and basement levels expected to wrap up by September 2025. The entire project, which began in phases, is scheduled for completion in 2026.

The $596 million Capitol Accessibility, Maintenance, and Safety (CAMS) project, which was approved in 2016, aims to modernize the historic building, improve seismic resilience, enhance accessibility, and introduce new public spaces.

“The earth can move in every direction, and the building will stay in one spot,” said Aaron Jones, superintendent at Hoffman Construction, explaining the earthquake-resistant foundation upgrades.

Transformations Inside the Capitol

Though scaffolding and construction equipment still surround parts of the building, the interior is taking shape. The basement level—referred to as the "concourse level"—will soon house:

🏛️ Four new hearing rooms
📢 Two press rooms
🍽️ A new restaurant
🌱 Two open-air courtyards for added natural light

“We planned for potential supply and staffing issues early on and haven’t faced major delays,” Jones added, crediting careful planning for keeping the project on track.

A Historic Structure Reinforced for the Future

Originally built in 1938, the Oregon State Capitol required extensive updates to meet modern structural and safety standards.

🔹 Phase 1: Replaced outdated plumbing, electrical systems, and added accessible stairways and exits
🔹 Phase 2: Strengthened seismic protections, upgraded mechanical and electrical systems, and improved public accessibility
🔹 Final Phase (Ongoing): Focuses on interior renovations, courtyard additions, and improved building stability

This phase accounts for the bulk of the $596 million budget, ensuring the Capitol can withstand future seismic events while preserving its historic integrity.

A New Era for Art and Accessibility

Beyond structural improvements, the Capitol will feature new artwork from Indigenous, immigrant, and Black artists, offering a diverse representation of Oregon’s history.

“It’s an opportunity for artists across the state to showcase how they view the history of Oregon,” said Jodie Jones, CAMS project director.

Additionally, existing elevators in both wings of the building are being modernized to meet current accessibility standards.

Oregon’s Largest Public Building Project Since PDX Expansion

Following the completion of the Portland Airport expansion in 2024, the Capitol renovation is now Oregon’s largest active public construction project.

Despite ongoing work, legislative sessions continue with minimal disruption, and the new concourse-level facilities are expected to be ready for use before the final project completion in 2026.

With enhanced earthquake protections, improved accessibility, and modernized facilities, the Oregon State Capitol’s transformation ensures it will serve Oregonians for generations to come.

Originally reported by Alan Cohen in Salem Reporter.