Busy season begins inside Capitol Campus buildings
Students are still on summer break. Lawmakers are not in session. But for the dedicated professionals who care for the Capitol Campus’ buildings, a busy season has begun.
Staff are preparing for new residents at the Governor’s Mansion, where, after 12 years, Gov. Jay Inslee and First Spouse Trudi Inslee will be moving out.
Another transition takes place into the newly remodeled Temple of Justice in early fall. DES has managed the renovation of the Temple with new heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and lighting.
And, in a landmark moment for the Legislative Campus Modernization project, members of the state Senate will move into new offices in the Irv Newhouse replacement building in November.
Carpenters, electricians, painters, and plumbers are hard at work. Staff are replacing worn carpet and fixtures in the Governor’s Mansion. On the night shift, they clean floors; during the day, they dust chandeliers and shampoo rugs. An estimated 40-50 offices must be repainted. And as the 2025 legislative session approaches, staff will fulfill lawmakers’ work orders by moving outlets, changing light fixtures, placing or removing shelves, and installing wall-mounted TV monitors.
DES must complete all these projects by mid-January, when the legislative session begins, so legislators can get to work for the people of Washington.
Visitor will soon be able to see the results, too. Tours of the Legislative Building and campus grounds are open all year. Tours of the Governor’s Mansion will resume in October. Learn more about tours.