UPDATE: Damages to Legislative Hall estimated at $1.5 million

Legislative Hall is set to re-open to the public, following a fire earlier this month.

Back on October 7, a fire started on the third floor of Legislative Hall, that was caused by an exhaust pipe in the attic space for the building’s emergency backup generator in the basement. The flames damaged the north wing of the structure.

The State of Delaware has announced that the building will re-open to the public on Friday, November 6, with tours and public access resuming then. Officials with the state say damages are estimated at $1.5 million.

“This cost includes such things as: a thorough cleaning of all smoke and fire damaged areas; cleaning and replacement of attic duct work; reconstruction of office space damaged by the fire; construction management and associated engineering costs; refinishing of furniture damaged by the water; cost associated with the artwork cleaning; computer cleaning and replacement; and wiring and cable replacement.” says the Office of Management and Budget.

Officials say the state is self-insured, so funding for repairs will given through the self-insurance fund. There are budget hearings on Monday, November 2 in the House of Chambers, which the public are invited to attend, before the official re-opening.