[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 128 (Friday, July 28, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1087]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNITION OF MINNESOTA STATE CAPITOL GRAND REOPENING

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                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 28, 2017

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 
grand reopening of the Minnesota State Capitol after nearly four years 
of renovation.
  Designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert and inspired by the 1893 
Chicago World's Fair's White City, an Italian Renaissance city-sized 
exhibit, the Minnesota State Capitol was celebrated as one of America's 
finest state houses when it opened in 1905.
  Now, after nearly 30 years of planning and study, this great building 
has been reborn through renovation, restoration, and enhancements, 
including technological improvements. The renovation extends the usable 
lifespan of the State Capitol by at least another century.
  The amount of public space has doubled to nearly 40,000 square feet, 
brand new public meeting rooms line the halls, the public will have 
more access and seating in hearing rooms, and a new information center 
for students and educators will enrich school visits. In addition, the 
renovation has made the State Capitol more accessible to all 
Minnesotans, especially those with disabilities.
  When the State Capitol open its doors to Minnesotans this summer, the 
citizens of my home state will be able tour expanded public spaces, 
marvel at restored art and craftsmanship, and more effectively 
participate in our legislative process.
  Thank you to all the workers for the hours of planning, design, 
building, and polishing our State Capitol back to its original 
grandeur. Congratulations to everyone involved.

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