Ohio Statehouse

Kroll Security Group (KSG) developed a comprehensive security master plan for a major renovation to this Historic Statehouse.  KSG’s Capitol Square Renovations Master Plan was issued in December 1990, coinciding with the planned renovation of the Statehouse.

The security system recommendations implemented included all phases of security protection, such as establishment of a site security force, an automated access control and alarm monitoring system, a duress alarm system, closed circuit television surveillance and assistance intercoms.  In addition to the protection of senior elected officials, the system included provision for protection of many valuable historical records and artifacts.

Subsequent to the initial renovation project, KSG participated in a major security system upgrade project beginning in 2001.  This project included a complete renovation of the access control system, upgrading the closed circuit television system to an all-color system, implementation of a digital video recording and archiving system and new security communications systems.

Kroll Security Group re-designed the Security Command Center, designing the space with an ergonomic approach including a curved multi-bay console and a seven-foot high by 15 foot-long video monitor wall.  Closed circuit television cameras were positioned in critical areas, some exposed, and some concealed with the exposed cameras enclosed in color-coordinated architectural housings.  The alarm monitoring system not only monitors the Statehouse, but also monitors several state office buildings within the state building complex in downtown Columbus.

The historic nature of the Statehouse forced the design team to institute the security upgrades in harmony with the historic architecture of the building.  Card readers were designed and implemented to have a minimum impact on the building.  CCTV camera housings were painted to blend with the surrounding walls with housings chosen to again minimize the impact on the overall historic nature of the building.  Several cameras were concealed where any visible presence would distract from the architecture in high finish rooms and/or congressional chambers.

Today the statehouse is a model for blending state-of-the-art security protection with adherence to the historic preservation requirements of one of America’s older Statehouses.

This is a Historical Restoration project.