Wyoming State Capitol

Improving infrastructure for a better Capitol experience

Communication is a key part of good governance. The opportunity for constituents and policy advocates to hear what their legislators are discussing is what keeps the wheels of state government moving in an open and transparent process.

When the acoustics in a capitol aren’t quite right, it hinders the ability of lawmakers and the people they represent to work together. Our research found that acoustics have been a challenge in the Wyoming Capitol since its early construction. Historic and recent past photographs and documents show how many solutions have been attempted throughout the building’s history.

Now, more than 130 years after the historic building was completed, the State of Wyoming is working with Treanor to develop a permanent fix to the long-standing acoustic issues. The last major restoration to take place at the capitol was completed in 2019 by another architectural firm.

Addressing mechanical and acoustic issues to improve constituent communication

As the historic preservation architect and architect of record, we are working with the State on a series of improvements that will make the Capitol more functional for lawmakers, staff, and the public. Our team is collaborating with sound engineers Avant Acoustics, who conducted the initial report on the capitol’s acoustic quality.

While being mindful of historic preservation, some of our work will center on mechanical system changes. One challenge in some of the spaces in the capitol building is the noise of air handling units, which are loud and impact offices. Air handling units will be reprogrammed and reinsulated/baffled to reduce the noise level. Several thermostats are located in areas overexposed to the sun, leading to false readings of indoor temperatures and causing HVAC units to run excessively. Relocation of these will improve the conditions. Several grills associated with return air are too small, creating excessive velocity and noise, which will be remediated.

We have recommended adding ceiling and/or wall acoustic treatments to the most important spaces to improve sound quality. The legislative Chambers, historic Supreme Court meeting room, the Governor’s ceremonial conference room, public meeting and conference rooms, and public passageways will all receive acoustic wall or ceiling treatments. Areas like the House and Senate Chamber/Galleries will include improvements to ceiling speakers so verbal comprehension is improved for visitors.

The expectations and interactions with lawmakers have changed since the Wyoming State Capitol was built in the late 19th century. Today, there is a broadcast studio where lawmakers and officials are interviewed so the public can stay informed about what is happening in the capitol. Located in the basement, the studio is surrounded by noisy elements. An elevator shaft is located on one side, a parking garage on another, and mechanical spaces are right above the studio. Our challenge is to design a space that’s better suited for interviews and not impacted by these nearby elements.

Historic preservation is a top priority

All design solutions will respect the historic character and integrity of the building. The capitol is a National Historic Landmark and has been designated as the most significant historic building in Wyoming. Any modifications or additions made in the building must be sensitive to the original design and not detract from its historic character.

Our team has finished the initial phase of working through design solutions to improve the capitol’s acoustic quality and mechanical infrastructure. We have collaborated closely with the legislative committee charged with this addressing these issues. Construction is likely to begin in 2026.