Construction of a new Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery is underway, with an estimated cost of $400 million. The Alabama Legislative Council approved the project last year and received an update on Wednesday. Othni J. Lathram, director of the Legislative Services Agency, informed lawmakers that the new Statehouse building alone will cost around $300 million to $325 million. Additional projects, such as a parking deck, green space, new voting system, demolition of the old building, and drainage improvements, will add another $75 million to $100 million to the total cost.
Lathram assured lawmakers that the cost estimates are in line with the initial projections and that the goal is to have lawmakers in the new building for the 2027 organizational session. The Retirement Systems of Alabama is overseeing the design and construction of the new Statehouse, which will ultimately be sold or leased to the Alabama Legislature. The new building is currently being constructed behind the existing Statehouse, with plans to demolish the old building and create a park-like area in its place. A parking deck will also be built in a lot adjacent to the current Statehouse.
Legislators had previously moved into the current building in 1985 when renovations were being done at the Alabama State Capitol, which also houses the governor’s office. Despite the completion of renovations at the Capitol, lawmakers chose to remain in the current building. The new Statehouse project is part of an effort to provide modern and efficient facilities for Alabama lawmakers and staff. The completion of the new Statehouse, parking deck, green space, and other related projects will enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the legislative campus in Montgomery.
The construction of the new Alabama Statehouse and associated projects are seen as investments in the state’s infrastructure and government facilities. The cost of the project, amounting to $400 million, reflects a significant commitment to providing a suitable and comfortable work environment for lawmakers. The decision to build a new Statehouse reflects the importance of maintaining a functional and modern legislative space that meets the needs of lawmakers, staff, and visitors. The project is expected to benefit the state in the long run by providing a facility that can accommodate the evolving needs of the legislature.
Efforts are being made to ensure that the project stays within the estimated budget of $400 million. Othni J. Lathram emphasized that the cost estimates are on track and that the goal is to complete the construction in time for the 2027 organizational session. The involvement of the Retirement Systems of Alabama in overseeing the design and construction of the new Statehouse adds a layer of expertise and experience to the project. The new Statehouse is expected to offer improved functionality and conveniences for legislators, as well as contributing to the overall enhancement of the legislative campus in Montgomery.
