Although the Capitol dome is undergoing a restoration for the next two years, West Virginia’s statehouse continues to serve as an incubator for inspiration. Housing the offices of the Governor, the Supreme Court of Appeals, the Constitutional Officers and the Legislature, the architectural wonder belongs to the citizens of West Virginia. As such, the road to the Capitol is never long.
During the year, visitors come from throughout the world, nation and state to photograph and experience the work of Cass Gilbert, the Capitol’s architect who is noted for his simplicity, just proportions, beauty and refinement.
Throughout the year, residents come to the Capitol to conduct business or to seek assistance in one form or the other. During the Legislative Session, people come to be heard.
Although letters and telephone calls are taken seriously during the Interim, the volume of a collective voice of like-minded people is amplified for 60 Days of the Regular Session during the first three or four months of each year.
As voters have become more politically aware in the past few years, more citizens come to the Capitol to participate in the democratic process. For a first time visitor, the trip can be daunting, yet always exhilarating…and maybe frustrating.
To further encourage citizen participation, a few tips on taking the road to Charleston may be helpful to interested parties.
First and foremost, plan an arrival date. Because some days are set aside for specific legislative actions, it may be difficult to contact a lawmaker. For instance, Mar. 21st is the last day for the Senate to introduce bills in the State Senate and Mar. 25th is the deadline for the House of Delegates. Members of both bodies will more than likely be holding day-long sessions to ensure bills they are sponsoring make it to the hopper. In addition, Mar. 27th is the last day for bills to move from committees and Mar. 30th is the last day for bills to be addressed in their house of origin. Again, long sessions are expected.
Also, let representatives know when you are planning to travel to the Capitol. This will allow them to set aside time or to let you know they may be carrying out their legislative responsibilities and time may not be an option.
Plan an agenda and know your bearings. An information packet may be downloaded from the Legislative Web site which details a Capitol map with legislative office locations. The identification of Senate and House district representatives can be made easier by obtaining a Directory of the 77th Legislature from the Public Information Office or by reviewing district maps on the legislative Web site. The information packet also provides locations of handicapped entrances and restroom facilities.
If observing a floor session is on the itinerary, a pattern has emerged in recent years whereas the membership may be required in their Chambers at 11 a.m. There is no set length of time for floor proceedings so full debate may be conducted. Committee meetings generally occur in the afternoon or in the late evenings.
Because of the volume of people coming to the Capitol during the Legislative Session parking is always an obstacle. While parking spots are readily available throughout the year, the amount of traffic arriving during session, too, is amplified. Sharing a ride takes on a whole new meaning during this deliberative time.
Free parking is available at Laidley Field, located West of the Capitol Complex and shuttle buses travel to and from the Capitol every 15 minutes. Many organizations charter buses while school children are brought by their familiar ride, the school bus.
The Capitol Cafeteria also sees its capacity stretched to its limit. Expect lines and plan accordingly. Some visitors take advantage of the time spent in Charleston to experience local restaurants while others grab a bite at nearby fast food establishments.
Oftentimes people ask what clothes are appropriate. Citizens have the luxury to come as they are within reason but coat racks are not available. It is recommended to lighten purses and wear comfortable walking shoes since marble flooring is not forgiving.
The Legislature is in its remaining 23 days of session as of March 17th. For those citizens who do not make it to Charleston in 2005, each is encouraged to visit during 2006.
The citizens of the State maintain the State Capitol. Voters select who will serve as their representative voices. With this authority, people are welcome to come home at any time, since the road is never long.
