For the past decade, the Florida Capitol has been undergoing continuous renovations, with no end in sight. Three separate projects totaling $235 million, along with $73 million in repairs to underground parking garages, have overlapped, causing disruptions for workers, visitors, and equipment in and around the Capitol complex.

Some projects are nearing completion, such as redesigning the front plaza, building a new security vestibule, and replacing over 1,600 windows. However, the garage project, which began the Capitol’s transformation in 2014, must be redone entirely.

Currently, visitors are met with the east entrance closed off, and the sidewalk leading to the west entrance is torn up, with the doors inaccessible behind construction fencing, tape, and equipment. These entrances serve as the only public access points to the Capitol, which is the heart of Florida’s political activity during the Legislature’s 60-day annual session, beginning March 4.

The Department of Management Services (DMS), which oversees the Capitol’s maintenance, assures that the vestibule and east entrance will be reopened in time for the legislative session, though committee hearings begin in January. Visitors attending pre-session meetings must enter through the west side, navigating a maze of blocked-off corridors before reaching the east entrance.

Work in proximity to Governor Ron DeSantis’ office has caused staff to relocate a mile away to offices near the Governor’s Mansion.

On the west side of the Capitol, Waller Park, a popular meeting space, is undergoing a complete redesign to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The project, originally set for completion in 2024, has faced delays, and is now expected to be finished by fall 2025.

In addition to these renovations, workers are installing a new HVAC system and replacing 1,656 windows with tinted bulletproof glass, projects that will continue through 2028. Meanwhile, the parking garage repairs that began in 2014 have hit a roadblock, with a lawsuit filed against contractors for a failed waterproofing job that resulted in ongoing leaks.

Waller Park and West Entrance Redesign

‍Waller Park, stretching the length of Duval Street from Madison Street to Pensacola Street, is being redesigned with elevators and ramps replacing a series of stairs. The project was originally budgeted at $45 million, but unforeseen complications have increased the cost to an estimated $53 million, with completion now expected by fall 2025.

Capitol Courtyard and East Entrance Overhaul

‍The $182 million renovation of the Capitol courtyard is in progress, which includes the installation of a new HVAC system, window replacements, and a new security vestibule at the east entrance. The vestibule, which will offer additional space for visitor queuing and enhance security, should be ready before the start of the legislative session.

Bulletproof Windows and HVAC System

‍As part of the Capitol's ongoing security upgrades, the replacement of all 1,656 windows with bulletproof glass is a key part of the renovation efforts. The outdated original windows, installed in 1977, are being replaced alongside a modern HVAC system that will provide better climate control and energy efficiency.

Parking Garage Repairs Need Redo

‍The original construction work on the Capitol parking garages, initiated in 2014, involved extensive repairs after structural concerns were raised. The initial $75 million investment to waterproof the garages has not resolved the issue, and water continues to drip into the garages. DMS has filed a lawsuit against the project’s contractors seeking damages for the failed repairs, with a court date potentially set for 2027.