A 1908 postcard showing the state Capitol's Eastern Approach less than a decade after construction of the building was completed.

The Eastern Approach of the state Capitol: East Capitol Park has been fenced off in preparation for what's expected to be four years of work on the majestic but crumbling staircase and the structure beneath it.

Maybe we can have nice things after all.

That possibility is raised by the mundane appearance of fencing around the perimeter of East Capitol Park. Get used to the view, or rather the lack of one: The park will be off limits to the public for what's expected to be four years of work on the majestic Eastern Approach to the 126-year-old building that stands at the literal center of downtown Albany and the metaphorical heart of New York's democracy.

Advertisement

Article continues below this ad

The staircase and the complex structure beneath it have been deteriorating,........

© Times Union