Cape Lookout Lighthouse Stabilization Project - Winter 2026 Update

Drone view of Cape Lookout Lighthouse Stabilization Project. Cement foundation laid around the apron of the Lighthouse. Scaffolding is going to be added soon.

NPS Photo

Updated: Febuary 27, 2026

On-site work began in September 2025 for the $15.2 million lighthouse stabilization project. National Park Service (NPS) and Stone and Lime Historic Restoration Services, Inc. (North Brookfield, Massachusetts) are working in partnership to repair and refurbish the interior and exterior of the lighthouse, repair and replace deteriorated materials and finishes that improve safety and enhance the visitor experience.

Cape Lookout Lighthouse is approximately 163-ft in height. It is constructed with multi-wythe masonry and a central cast-iron stairway leading from the ground level to the watch level (8th floor), where a ladder leads to the cast-iron and glass lantern enclosure on top of the structure.

Key highlights of the first phase of the project include:

• Construction fencing installation around the work area, limiting access for visitation and viewpoints.
• Definition of a construction route leading from the sound side beach to the work site and staging areas. This is on the southeast side of the Keeper’s Quarters and Summer Kitchen. During delivery of project equipment and materials, this area is closed to the public.
• Scaffolding has been delivered and is being erected around the exterior and interior of the lighthouse over this phase of the project.

Visitors to the site should expect the entire area to be under construction for a minimum of twenty-four months. Access to the Keeper’s Quarters Museum will vary through the course of the project. Temporary closures may occur. Also, the exterior of the lighthouse will be scaffolded for the duration of the project. The lighthouse beacon will be installed on the top of the scaffolding during the project. In collaboration with the United States Coast Guard, there will be periods of time that the light is turned off due to the construction.

The park will provide limited acecess to view the construction activities. Visitors can watch the project from the Keeper’s Quarters Museum and learn about the stabilization project as construction schedules permit.