Last updated: July 13, 2026
Article
Independence Square Improvement Project
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Project Overview
The Independence Square Improvement Project (ISIP) at Independence National Historical Park rehabilitated and preserved key historic structures and features on Independence Square. The buildings that underwent improvements include:- Independence Hall
- Congress Hall
- Old City Hall
In March 2025, the National Park Service (NPS) initiated the project. The work was carried out with the help from skilled NPS maintenance assistance teams from the Historic Preservation Training Center and the Historic Architecture, Conservation & Engineering Center.
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Key tasks of the ISIP included:
- Designing and constructing accessible ramps
- Masonry and monument restoration
- Restoring interior and exterior wood elements
- Repairing interior plaster work
- Preserving metal finishes
- Applying historically accurate paint finishes to the ceilings, walls, and trim
Timeline
The project will be completed by the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in July 2026.Frequently Asked Questions
Maybe. Temporary and intermittent closures will occur in specific areas of Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and Old City Hall during construction. The goal is to maintain minimal disruption to visitor access. Visitors are encouraged to check the park's website for updates on specific closures.
All work adheres to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Historic Preservation and NPS Cultural Resource Management Guidelines. NPS employees from the maintenance assistance teams are skilled preservation specialists that include historic architects and conservators. Comprehensive documentation, including Historic Structure Treatment Reports, will record all treatments and materials used.
Accessible ramp designs are developed in consultation with park staff and historic architects to meet accessibility requirements while minimizing impact on the historic fabric. Temporary ramps will be installed during construction to ensure continued access, and all designs comply with federal policy to preserve the original aesthetic and structural integrity.
The NPS is implementing a robust safety plan, compliant with OSHA regulations, to protect workers and visitors. Construction fencing and signage will protect visitors, and rooms with lead-containing finishes will be isolated during plaster and paint work to ensure public safety.
This is exciting and necessary work for Independence National Historical Park. We have millions of visitors every year and interest is increasing as we are the focal point for the 250th anniversary commemorative events throughout 2025 and 2026.
Yes. Park staff will provide learning experiences about the significance of Independence Hall in an alternate location.