Faulty fire alarms trigger another Capitol evacuation amid ageing infrastructure woes
The state Capitol faced another round of disruptions last week when faulty fire alarms forced a full evacuation. Visitors, lawmakers, and staff had to leave via stairwells after the system malfunctioned for the third time in recent days. The building, already dealing with ongoing renovations and past water damage, continues to show signs of ageing infrastructure.
The alarms went off on January 11, interrupting work for legislators like State Sen. Donna Mercado Kim. Elevators immediately locked at street level, leaving no option but the stairs. This wasn’t the first issue—previous legislative openings saw elevators out of service for repairs.
Faulty sensors were identified as the cause, and ADT Commercial was brought in to replace them. The company took over after problems were first detected in late 2025. But fire alarms aren’t the only concern. In November 2024, a major leak from the reflecting pools flooded the basement, leading to water damage and mould growth. Renovations have been slow since 2020, with barriers limiting access. Only minor saw-cutting work has been possible during sessions. The Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) has a long-term plan to upgrade the 57-year-old building, but progress remains gradual.
The Capitol’s repeated issues highlight the need for urgent repairs. With fire alarms now fixed and renovations ongoing, officials aim to prevent further disruptions. The building’s long-term maintenance plan will determine how well it serves lawmakers and visitors in the years ahead.
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