The second phase included the completion of the first of four new pressurized exit stairs and life-safety improvements for 25,200 sf of offices and public areas in the northwest portion of the Capitol. The next two phases will be identical work in the three remaining quadrants of the building.

The improvements are considered necessary because the Capitol draws 250,000 visitors annually. So far, safety improvements to historic portions of the Capitol have been completed in the attic, third floor and sub-basement. Improvements include a new fire command center, fast-acting fire sprinkler system, addressable smoke detection, fire alarm and annunciation, fan controls, emergency lighting and exit signs.

The new staircase is an extension of an existing historic staircase that connected the second and third floors. It was extended from the third floor up to the attic to serve a newly created Attic Gallery and an existing dome observation level. Additionally, the staircase was extended down from the second floor to the sub-basement where a new below-grade exit and air well were created to provide safe egress from the Capitol.