2009: Initial concepts for a comprehensive Space Needle renovation are presented to the Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board. The Board requests a single, unified renovation plan rather than multiple smaller projects. In response, the Century Project is conceptualized.
2013: Early planning discussions for the Century Project begin with the Landmarks Preservation Board.
2015: The Space Needle hires Olson Kundig as the project architect and returns to the Landmarks Preservation Board to review detailed renovation plan. These plans include a full elevator replacement.
2016: Landmarks Preservation Board approves the project. Due to the project complexity, the renovation is divided into two phases: the Century Project—a full renovation of the Space Needle’s top house—and the Elevator Modernization Project.
2017: Construction begins for the Century Project
2018: The Century Project opens to the public. The renovation features dramatically expanded 360-degree views of Seattle from a new glass Observation Deck. The tower also debuts “The Loupe”—the world’s first and only revolving glass floor.
2019: Following an extensive selection process, Otis is chosen as the manufacturer for the Space Needle’s new elevator system. With a 170-year history and a strong reputation for iconic outdoor elevator installations—including those at the Eiffel Tower and the original Space Needle—Otis is an ideal partner for modernization.
2020: The Space Needle closes for the COVID-19 outbreak and the elevator project pauses. This is the first time in Space Needle history that the building was closed for more than one week.
2021: Elevator Modernization Project restarts. Otis begins the manufacturing process.
2022: Turner Construction is selected as the General Contractor.
2023: Preconstruction begins. Throughout the Elevator Modernization Project the Space Needle remains open to visitors.
2024: The Space Needle north-facing elevator is removed.
2025: The first new, double deck, all-glass, outdoor elevator opens to the public by Memorial Day 2025. The west-facing cab is set to open in 2027 and the south-facing cab in 2028