In June 1999 a special protective netting structure was assembled and installed under the inner shell of the dome. The netting was removed in May 2000 after it was no longer needed for Phase I of the Dome Rehabilitation Project. The visiting public may again enjoy the Rotunda and its beautifully decorated inner shell for a maximum period of time before the start of Phase II.

The present project was developed as the result of a 1991 report regarding water penetration of the dome during heavy rain storms; the report revealed problems with the present drainage system and its maintenance as well as the need to address deteriorating lead-based paint and numerous cracks and breaks in the dome's cast-iron plates. Work to improve the existing drainage system and its maintenance was completed in 1994. As a result, the Rotunda has remained free of major interior leaks but still shows water staining due to minor leaks or condensation. Recent inspections of the dome have also revealed an increase in the number of cracks and breaks and significant paint peeling on the decorative surfaces and coffers of the inner shell of the dome.

The second project has been divided into two phases. The first phase addressed the interstitial space between the dome's inner and outer shells. The primary focus of this phase was lead paint abatement on all visible surfaces, post paint removal crack inspection on the interior face of the exterior plates, and repainting of all surfaces with a primer and two finish coats. This phase began in early 1999 and was be completed in July 2000. Particular attention was given to inspection and monitoring of the Rotunda canopy, which holds Constantino Brumidi's 4664-square-foot fresco The Apotheosis of Washington.

To ensure a comprehensive and orderly program of repairs, the Architect of the Capitol began work on this phase with five pilot projects. These included selected repairs to the tholos balustrade, the second-story windows, and cracks in the dome's belt course; recasting of gutters; and tests of various paint-removal techniques and lead-abatement procedures. As a result of the tests completed early in 1998, the Architect has specified both repair and replacement of damaged or deteriorated ironwork. Various lead-abatement procedures will be applied, some of which produce noise that will necessitate conducting the work at night.

A major structural review, including the development of two- and three-dimensional computer models, was also completed by a nationally respected consultant; the original structural design and present condition of the dome were pronounced "exceptional."

The inspection of the bare cast-iron plates during phase one will allow the consulting team to document all repairs and replacements that are to be addressed during phase two of the work. While phase one is in progress, a final "master plan" for the dome will be completed. In this process consideration will be given to other projects and work in related areas that could be performed efficiently in conjunction with the major work. This will include systems modifications, the installation of improved lighting and other life-safety features, security and communication updates, and even roof repairs in adjacent areas. During Phase II, it is also anticipated that a new bird-proofing system will be installed to replace the present system, which is reaching the end of its useful life. In addition, final cost estimates and project schedules will also be developed and refined. The master plan will set forth a strategy for undertaking the more involved phase two work with minimal intrusion on the range of daily activities at the Capitol. Phase two is presently scheduled to begin in late 2001 or early 2002, depending upon the availability of funds, and last nearly three years.