A fixture in downtown Denver since 1908 will close its doors to the public tomorrow as the state Capitol dome undergoes extensive repairs for the next two years.
Many sections of the drum — the cylindrical portion of the dome structure — are badly rusting and starting to separate in places.
Katie Carroll, development manager at Colorado Preservation — the organization in charge of the restoration efforts — says it will cost a total of $17 million to restore the structure.
Throughout the project’s duration the preservation will raise $13 million of that total from corporate sponsorships and private donations.
“Just the dome will be closed. Visitors can still get into the museum portion known as Mr. Brown’s attic,” said Carroll.
The dome’s signature gold leaf exterior — which was last replaced in 1991 — will also be covered in white scrim, making the downtown skyline appear visibly different.
Repairs a slated for completion in May 2014.
