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AIA Sends Capitol Dome Support Letter: Add Your Voice Today

By Shervan Sebastian, Manager, Federal Relations

From the original design atop Jenkins Hill in 1793, through several renovations, improvements and structural developments, the U.S. Capitol dome has served as a beacon of American freedom, ingenuity and our rich, prideful history.

However, the dome is showing its age. Architect of the Capitol Stephen Ayers, FAIA, told Congress last February that 150 years of damage caused by time and the elements necessitate urgent repair work. As Ayers stated, “[This] will ensure that the elements that make the Capitol Dome unique and iconic will not be lost to time and elements.”

Two weeks ago, the House approved a funding bill for Congressional operations that did not include funding for dome repairs. The AIA and its allies have written Congress urging House and Senate leaders to restore funding.

“There is little disagreement that the federal government, including Congress, must live within its means and be judicious in its consideration of short and long term expenditures,” the letter states. “However, the AOC’s FY2013 budget is focused primarily on needed maintenance and repair projects that are designed to keep the buildings of the Capitol complex – some of them nearly two centuries old – in proper working order.”

Now AIA members can weigh in with Congress on this issue as well. Click here to email your Senators to ensure that one of the most treasured American landmarks is protected from dilapidation.

Stay tuned to the AIA Issues and Advocacy page for more updates.

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