FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky’s historic State Capitol will soon close its doors to the public for more than three years as crews embark on a sweeping $291 million renovation aimed at modernizing aging infrastructure while preserving the landmark’s architectural beauty.

The major overhaul will upgrade the building’s HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems, modernize the interior with fresh paint and restoration work, and widen the north elevator to improve ADA accessibility for the thousands of visitors, staff and lawmakers who pass through the Capitol each year.

Renovations are already underway on the Capitol’s iconic dome, including cleaning, repairing structural elements and replacing terracotta tiles that date back more than 80 years.

“It’s been ranked as one of the most beautiful capitals in America,” said Rocky Adkins, a former House representative of 30 years and now senior advisor to Governor Andy Beshear. “This is the people’s house, as the state capital. So if we’re going to vacate this building for however long it is until they finish it, let’s do it right.”

The massive project comes after decades of piecemeal repairs and deferred maintenance. According to state leaders, modernizing the building’s essential systems is long overdue and will ensure the seat of Kentucky’s government remains safe, accessible and functional for generations to come.

While the Kentucky House and Senate lawmakers moved out of their chambers earlier this summer to nearby offices in the Capitol Annex, other state officials are following suit. The Secretary of State’s office is currently relocating, with the Attorney General’s office and the offices of the Lieutenant Governor and Governor Beshear expected to move out by next week.

“It’s sad to leave, but it is something that has to be done,” Adkins said. “So, even though there’s some feelings about leaving, I look forward to being here when we cut the ribbon to reenter and see everything that’s been done.”

Until the official closure later in August, the Capitol remains open for tours, giving Kentuckians and visitors one last chance to view the “people’s house” before the extensive work begins in earnest.

The renovation is part of a broader commitment by state leaders to protect Kentucky’s historical sites while upgrading them to meet modern standards of safety, energy efficiency and accessibility.

When complete in 2029, the fully restored Capitol is expected to provide a more welcoming, functional and sustainable home for Kentucky’s legislative and executive branches — while preserving the classical Beaux-Arts design that has made the building a symbol of pride for more than a century.

State officials say more details on public reopening events and ribbon cuttings will be shared closer to project completion. For now, the Capitol stands poised for a new chapter — one that honors its rich history while preparing it for the next generation.

Originally reported by Addie Meiners in WLKY.