New Maine State House Dome To Cost $1.2 Million

The Maine State House, known to many by its patina-green dome, will be getting a new copper top. Legislative leaders have approved a plan to remove the present copper covering, which has grown thin and leaky over the 103 years it’s been in place, and replace it with new copper.

The plan was approved Monday. Council Executive Director David Boulter said Tuesday the $1.2 million cost requires no new appropriation or borrowing. He says the project’s scheduled to start early next spring.

Besides developing leaks, the old copper dome has turned green over the decades. Copper domes usually have a lifespan of 75 years, so replacement of Maine’s is past due. The old copper will be recycled and some of it cut into small pieces for mementos