Governor Kelly Celebrates
Docking State Office Building Reconstruction
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today celebrated the start of the Docking State Office Building reconstruction project. As a part of the ceremony, Governor Kelly, Secretary of Administration Adam Proffitt, former Governor Robert Docking’s grandson, Brian, and other state and community leaders signed steel beams that will be used in the project.
Originally built in 1957, the Docking State Office was named after Governor Robert Docking in 1987. The Docking State Office Building’s reconstruction begins following the deconstruction that was completed last year.
“Since it opened over 65 years ago, the Docking State Office Building has served the people of Kansas well. It is important that we appreciate and honor the role the new building has played in our history and will now play in our future,” said Governor Kelly. “The new Docking Building is taking us to a brighter future for our state government and the people we serve. Soon, we’ll be able to see what this structure will look like when complete – forward-looking and modern, hosting an exhibition space, a café, a gym, a health clinic, and even an events center.
The Department of Administration, in partnership with Hutton Construction, has managed the reconstruction project. Secretary of Administration Adam Proffitt also spoke about the myriad benefits of the reconstructed building.
“We have intended for Docking to be a gateway for Kansans into their government. It was that vision that guided us through the design process—to keep Kansas and Kansans centered,” Department of Administration Secretary Adam Proffitt said. “The artwork, the materials, the exhibits inside the building will all be a nod to Kansas.”
Reconstruction of the building is expected to last 18 months and will be available for occupancy in the summer of 2025.
Photos from today’s beam signing ceremony for media use are available below.
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