RD385 - Capitol Square Preservation Council Annual Report—December 1st, 2010


Executive Summary:
Created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1999, the Capitol Square Preservation Council oversees "the architectural, historical, archaeological and landscape features of Capitol Square." The fourteen-member Council recommends actions for "the enhancement of their historical and architectural integrity" and strategies "that will enhance interpretive and educational opportunities." Council members "review all plans or proposals for alterations, improvements, additions, renovations or other disposition that is structural or architectural in nature. No implementation of such plans or proposals shall take place prior to review by the Council." The Council is charged with making a report of its activities to the Governor and General Assembly by December 1st of each year.

2009-2010 Highlights:

• Completion of $109,026 project award from Virginia chapters, Daughters of the American Revolution

• Notification of $5,000 award from the Garden Club of Virginia toward publication of a history of Capitol Square

• Initiation of the Capitol's first comprehensive oral-history project with interviews of individuals currently or formerly associated with Capitol Square

• Collaboration with the Department of General Services and the Department of Historic Resources in restoration of the exterior of the Bell Tower and in repair and restoration of the 1818 Capitol Square fence

• Collaboration in completing and dismantling a one-year exhibit on Virginia's Indian tribes in the Capitol Extension

• Participation in initial development of a Virginia Capitol logo

• Presentation of 74 lectures/tours to academic classes, civic clubs, organizations, and groups.