West Virginia Senate Finance reviews $15M Diamond Building renovations plan

In a recent session of the West Virginia Senate Finance Committee, discussions centered on a significant $15 million renovation project for the historic Diamond Building in Charleston. The meeting highlighted the building's deteriorating condition and the urgent need for repairs, which have been assessed by the Department of Administration.

Robert Kilpatrick, the director of the General Services Division, provided insights into the proposed renovations. He explained that $10 million of the funding would be allocated to address critical issues with the building's masonry facade, which has been plagued by water intrusion and structural failures. These problems were identified following assessments conducted after the building was transferred from the Department of Health and Human Resources in January 2023.

In addition to the masonry work, the project includes $3 million earmarked for essential HVAC improvements and life safety upgrades, including a new fire alarm system. The current HVAC system, dating back to the building's original development in 1999, is outdated and struggling to maintain proper humidity control. Kilpatrick noted that the building currently houses approximately 850 employees, with a maximum capacity of 1,127.

The remaining $2 million of the budget is designated for repairs to a nearby parking garage, which has not undergone structural maintenance in 25 years. This garage is critical for accommodating the employees working in the Diamond Building and ensuring their safety.

Senators raised questions about the timeline of the renovation requests, with Kilpatrick confirming that this is the first formal request for funding. He also indicated that while the current allocation addresses some immediate needs, further funding may be necessary in the future to fully resolve the HVAC issues.

The discussions during this meeting underscore the importance of maintaining state-owned facilities, particularly those that serve as workplaces for numerous employees. As the committee moves forward, the implications of these renovations will likely extend beyond structural integrity, impacting the overall functionality and safety of the building for years to come.