By Tony McVeigh
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-849223.mp3
Frankfort, KY – The rotunda dome hasn't been painted in years because the building lacks an efficient system for getting the job done. It's 172 feet from the marble floor to the top of the dome. Scaffolding can't be used because that would be too much weight in a room with five huge statues. So bids are going out for installation of a pulley system, anchored by the steel beams that support the dome. "That allows us to clip in and have a method of sometimes...we can do as needed painting up there."
David Buchta of Historic Properties says the dome used to be lit by nearly 900 light bulbs, which haven't worked in years. Those will be replaced by high-efficiency LED lighting. The centennial celebration of the Capitol's 1910 dedication is set for next summer.