Featured Image Courtesy Andre m.
Get Involved: Save the Capitol’s West Side – A “Doorway to Democracy”
The California State Capitol’s West Side, described as California’s “Doorway to Democracy” is threatened. A proposed, partially underground Visitor Center on the west side of the 1860s Capitol will adversely impact the historic west side of the Capitol and the surrounding park, despite legal challenges, public sentiment opposing the proposed construction, and a Constitutional Amendment protecting the view of the capitol authored by the late Senator Jim Mills, a San Diego champion of preservation. Despite this, the proposal is nonetheless included in a recently certified environmental impact report.
Urgent action is needed now to convince Legislative leaders and the Governor not to destroy the West Side of the 1860’s Capitol where groups have historically gathered to celebrate events and speak out for important issues. The proposed Visitor’s Center would make the kinds of large gatherings almost impossible. CPF will host a Webinar on February 20th from noon to 1pm to explain how this proposal has survived and what we can do about it. Put this time on your calendar.
How to take Action
About the Speakers
Richard F. Cowan. Dick Cowan has 50 years of experience with large general contracting and construction management firms in the United States and Europe. His extensive experience includes historic and seismic restoration and upgrades, including the California State Capitol Restoration in the 1970’s, surrounding Sacramento’s Carnegie library with a modern library building while preserving the old, and the seismic upgrade and return to use of the 1920’s Emporium Capwell store in Oakland damaged by the Loma Prieta earthquake. Dick served for almost a decade as a Senate appointee to the California Historic State Capitol Commission. He holds engineering degrees from Cornell and UC Berkeley and is a registered California Civil Engineer.
M. Wayne Donaldson was appointed by President Barack Obama as Chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation in 2010. He was formerly the California State Historic Preservation Officer from 2004-2012. Architect Milford Wayne Donaldson FAIA celebrates its 37th year with projects throughout the United States. He received his Bachelor of Architecture from California Polytechnic University, Master of Science from the University of Strathclyde, Scotland and has received his Masters in Public History and Teaching from the University of San Diego. He is an architect of innovative design and has received several awards in preservation architecture including the 2014 American Institute of Architects Historic Resources Proclamation, the 1990 California Council, American Institute of Architects Award of Excellence, the 1991 CCAIA Distinguished Historic Preservation Award and the Preservationist of the Year Award by the California Preservation Foundation in 1995. In 1992, the American Institute of Architects inducted Mr. Donaldson into the College of Fellows.