Dear Friends of the B&O Railroad Museum:

As many visitors to our website have seen, progress on the Roundhouse lower roof is going along quite well. After a recent in-depth study however, structural engineers informed the Museum that the upper, or clerestory, roof does not have the structural integrity to meet current building code standards. This was not caused by the February 2003 snowstorm, and therefore repairs will not be covered by insurance monies.

With the help of structural engineers, architects, and historical experts, Museum officials explored several options to resolve this challenge. Pros and cons were weighed from an original list of seven, and four were eliminated. Of the three remaining choices, the first two would have a dramatic impact on the architectural component and aesthetic value of the Roundhouse, and would only provide minimum roofing code compliance. They would also be extremely labor intensive and would dramatically impact the construction schedule.

The third option to remove and replace the clerestory roof was selected. Although higher in cost than the alternatives, this option will guarantee the structural integrity of the building and ensure the safety of visitors and the collection. In addition, it will maintain the aesthetic value of Baldwin's original architectural design and will not impact on the building's National Historic Landmark status. Early estimates for this repair (not covered by insurance) are in excess of $2 million dollars and will add another six-months to the roof replacement.

The Museum is moving forward with the construction to build the new state-of-the-art restoration facility and formulating a reopening plan. Please see the Reconstruction and Restoration Plan slideshow for details.

This week's slideshow focuses on the clerestory roof and its different components.