(Rachel Alexander/Salem Reporter)
The Oregon State Capitol is again open to the public after over a year of closure, legislative leaders announced Monday.
Senate President Peter Courtney, D-Salem, and House Speaker Tina Kotek, D-Portland, said Monday in a statement that Oregonians could enter the buildings again.
The Capitol had been open only to legislators, essential employees and members of the media since March 2020, including during the 2021 session. Much of the legislature’s business was conducted virtually.
Because of ongoing construction inside the Capitol, some areas will remain off-limits, the statement said. That includes the Senate and House wings, which was open only to construction workers until December 2021. The State Street entrances and front steps will be temporarily closed for construction.
Guided tours of the Capitol will resume July 19, with daily 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. offerings. In August, four tours will be offered daily. Tower tours will resume in 2022.
-Rachel Alexander
