The Oregon State Capitol’s circular observation deck is getting a top-to-bottom refresh, and for now, Salem’s favorite sky-high lookout is officially off-limits.
Work started Monday on the platform that circles the Oregon Pioneer statue, with crews stripping away old tile and waterproofing. The construction closes the tower to public climbs and temporarily sidelines a classic summertime view over downtown Salem.
Deck Work Under Way
Crews from a Pioneer waterproofing company began removing terracotta tile from the circular platform on July 13, using roto-hammers to chip through multiple layers of concrete and waterproofing. Demolition is expected to take about two weeks. Contractors say the aging deck flooring, last replaced in the early 1990s, will be swapped for new terracotta, the wall flashing will be upgraded with stainless steel, and new drains and LED lighting are already in place as part of the project. As reported by the Statesman Journal.
Part Of The CAMS Overhaul
The deck repairs are one piece of the Capitol Accessibility, Maintenance and Safety (CAMS) program, a multi-phase renovation of the building estimated at roughly $596 million. Hoffman Construction is serving as the general contractor overseeing much of the current phase of work on the capitol. Per Hoffman Construction.
Visitor Access And Tours
The deck project will disrupt tower tours and other visitor services for the rest of the summer. Officials note that tower climbs are already weather-sensitive, with tours subject to cancellation if it is raining or if temperatures climb above 85 degrees, and when they do run they are first-come, first-served. The tour season typically wraps at the end of September. These details are listed on the capitol’s visitor page. As outlined by Oregon Capitol.
At The Top: History And Structure
The platform encircles the Oregon Pioneer, the gilded bronze figure perched on top of the capitol. The sculpture stands roughly 22–23 feet tall and weighs about 8.5 short tons, and visitors climb a tight spiral stair of 121 steps to reach the viewing platform. Earlier phases of the CAMS work strengthened the rotunda and protected murals and other historic finishes, and crews are waiting for a rain-free window to wrap up waterproofing in the rotunda. See Wikipedia for background on the statue and tower tour details.
What To Expect Next
Officials say work is being sequenced to limit disruption to the legislative calendar and to preserve the building’s historic finishes. Reopening dates will hinge on weather and material deliveries. Visitors are advised to check the capitol’s visitor page and project notices before planning a trip to the dome, and project updates will be posted as schedules and safety clearances are finalized.
