HR 1445: Georgia Building Authority team; continued historical preservation of the Georgia State Capitol; urge

House Resolution 1445

By: Representatives Cox of the 28th, Burns of the 159th, Hatchett of the 155th, Tarvin of the 2nd, Greene of the 154th, and others

A RESOLUTION

Urging the continued historical preservation of the Georgia state capitol; commending the Georgia Building Authority team for excellence with the restoration and the discovery of Andrew Carnegie Steel–one of the two oldest operating capitols in the United States with Carnegie Steel; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the Georgia State Capitol stands as a magnificent testament to our state's rich history and democratic traditions, having served continuously as the seat of Georgia's government since its completion in 1889; and

WHEREAS, this historic structure was constructed between 1884 and 1889, representing one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in the southeastern United States and serving as a symbol of Georgia's enduring commitment to democratic governance; and

WHEREAS, during the recent comprehensive renovation of our beloved Capitol, remarkable discoveries were made that revealed the building's extraordinary historical significance, including the presence of original Andrew Carnegie structural steel throughout the building's framework; and

WHEREAS, this discovery establishes the Georgia State Capitol as one of the two oldest capitol buildings still in continuous operation in the United States of America to feature Carnegie steel construction, adding immeasurable historical value to this treasured landmark; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Building Authority, under exceptional leadership, undertook the monumental task of restoring our State Capitol to its original architectural glory while preserving its historical integrity for future generations; and

WHEREAS, Marty Smith and Gerald Pilgrim of the Georgia Building Authority demonstrated outstanding leadership, vision, and dedication throughout this complex restoration project, ensuring that every detail honored both the building's historical significance and the needs of modern governance; and

WHEREAS, David Goodhead provided exceptional expertise and craftsmanship in the renovation process; his meticulous attention to detail and deep respect for historical preservation brought our Capitol back to its magnificent original condition; and

WHEREAS, the dedication and expertise of the construction team comprised of Sachin Dev Shailendra of SG Contracting, Michael Macon of Balfour-Beatty, M. Sean Moxley of Garbutt Construction, and the design team including Lamar Wakefield and Henry Cantwell of Nelson were essential to the successful restoration of one of Georgia's most important historic landmarks; and

WHEREAS, the entire Georgia Building Authority team worked tirelessly to balance historical preservation with modern functionality, creating a restored Capitol that serves as both a working seat of government and a treasured historical landmark; and

WHEREAS, their collective efforts have ensured that the Georgia State Capitol will continue to inspire citizens and visitors alike for generations to come, standing as a proud symbol of Georgia's heritage and democratic values.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body urge the continued historical preservation of the Georgia State Capitol and commend the Georgia Building Authority team for excellence with the restoration and the discovery of Andrew Carnegie Steel–one of the two oldest operating capitols in the United States with Carnegie Steel.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the House of Representatives extends its deepest gratitude to all members of the Georgia Building Authority team who contributed to this historic restoration project, recognizing their commitment to preserving Georgia's architectural heritage.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to Gerald Pilgrim, David Goodhead, and the Georgia Building Authority.