Sacramento’s worst state buildings: Number 5

California state government’s recent survey of the buildings it owns ranked them for physical condition – the ratio of repair costs to replacement costs – and safety. None of the Sacramento buildings’ scores fell into the “very poor” range, but here is an installment of five that are listed as “poor,” meaning they will need large-scale renovation soon.

Esther Loveridge, a former state employee, worked in the Jesse M. Unruh building across from the Capitol in the early sixties. She said the building, built in 1929, is a source of pride and memories.

“I was proud to work there; I was excited as a young woman ... that’s where I worked when President Kennedy was shot.”

She’s returned since then, because her stepdaughter now works in the building. She said its age doesn’t show on the outside.

But a study commissioned by the Department of General Services found plenty she couldn’t see. It estimates the cost needed for repairs right away could top $10 million. The Unruh building, at 915 Capitol Avenue, is the fifth worst state building in Sacramento, the state’s survey says.

Named for former Assembly Speaker and State Treasurer Jesse Unruh, the building’s major tenant is the State Treasurer’s Office.

Among other things, the report says the state should install a fire sprinkler system right away, and that asbestos and lead paint need to be removed.

This story was originally published August 13, 2015 at 10:06 AM with the headline "Sacramento’s worst state buildings: Number 5."