North Dakota State Capitol

The State Capitol grounds in Bismarck, North Dakota underwent a transformation to improve security, wayfinding, parking, and the Capitol grounds landscape on the north side of the capitol complex. Damon Farber’s predesign effort established a strong vision for the project that was approved by the State Legislature and awarded the necessary funding to implement phase one of this three phase project. Enhancements include a 100’ security setback that establishes a new North Plaza, realigned parking lots, improved pedestrian walks, and enhanced landscaping. The plaza includes stone clad seat walls that double as a security perimeter along with force protection bollards. Future phases are intended to include security gates at the loading dock and legislative drop-off to screen vehicles that enter the security perimeter. All of the security improvements are designed to blend into the landscape and ensure that an inviting feeling is still maintained at the Capitol.