The first picture was taken last Thursday. I was off work Friday and Monday, then forgot my camera yesterday, so no pics of them taking down the erector crane (red one on the left). You can see how tall the tower crane (blue) is as it soars above the Capitol building. We've been told they will be using the crane to haul things up to the dome for renovation to the inside. Here are some quick facts about the dome from
http://www.kshs.org/places/capitol/dome_tour.htm
Dome Facts |
The state legislature approved the dome in 1881 and the construction began in 1885.
There are 296 steps leading up from the fifth floor to the top of the dome.
The bronze statue of the Kansa warrior, Ad Astra, was placed on top of the dome in 2002. It is 22 feet and 2 inches tall and weighs 4,420 pounds.
The outer copper dome extends approximately 75 feet above this inner dome.
The copper sheeting covering the outer dome turns green when it oxidizes.
The inner dome is composed of glass panels.
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The tower crane almost ready for operation.
The east side of the Capitol currently under renovation.
Two metallic creatures soaring high above the city, like the birds they are so aptly named after.
This morning at sunrise, the lonely blue tower crane missing its red friend.
What a gorgeous site! The clouds looked as if they were dancing with the new blue creature.
Last, but not least.... yes that IS a porta-potty on top of the Capitol!!! You wouldn't believe how many times I heard someone ask where the guys would use the toilet, so I just HAD to show this! We're still not sure how the crane operator that will be in that little box with its own air conditioner will take care of elimination needs. Maybe a very small porta-potty. Anyone know the answer?
