The Maryland Department of General Services' Office of Design, Construction, and Energy is currently overseeing the most extensive renovation of the historic Maryland State House in decades. The restoration of the national oldest U.S. state capitol in continuous legislative use will preserve the building's 18th century historic appearance while ensuring the building's long-term viability.
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Why is the restoration of the State House important?
The Maryland State House is a National Historic Landmark and the principal feature of the Colonial Annapolis National Register Historic District.
It is the location of some of the most important events in the history of our nation, including:
- Washington's resignation as commander in chief before the Continental Congress
- The ratification of the Treaty of Paris
- The abolishment of slavery in the State of Maryland
- The 1867 writing of our state's constitution
As such, the Maryland State House is a significant cultural asset, on both a local and national level. The State of Maryland has preserved the Maryland State House while maintaining its continuous use over a period of nearly 250 years, making it the oldest state house in the United States under continuous legislative use. The Maryland State House must continue to be preserved not only to support ongoing government functions which it houses, but to help promote the thousands of visitors who come each year to learn about the rich history of our state and our nation, as well as for future generations to come.
Estimated Cost: $49 million
Time Frame: Estimated completion by end of 2024
Contractor: The Christman Company
Scope of Work:
- Complete replacement of slate shingles and partial replacement of wood shingles on the dome
- Repairs to substrate, wood trim, and windows located on the dome
- Restoration of the lower lantern balustrade
- Structural repairs and waterproofing of dome
- Restoration of historic lightning rod and weathervane
- Relocation of lightning protection system
- Modifications to deluge sprinkler system
- Re-gilding of acorn
- Window and roof repair/replacement
- Brick and stone masonry facade repairs
- Cornice repairs
- Repairs to existing State Circle brick masonry retaining wall
- Improvements to the landscaping, grading, ramps, walkways, lighting, and railings
- Restoration of the Old Treasury Building to its 18th century period
History of the Project:
The State House Project has been in the works since the preliminary planning of the project began in mid-2018. The estimated budget was submitted by the department to the Maryland Department of Budget and Management in December 2020 and was approved by the Maryland General Assembly in April 2021. Funds for the project were previously approved under the Maryland Consolidated Capitol Bond Loan 2015, 2021, 2023. As well as Fiscal Year 2023 Capital Appropriations Funds.
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