PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — The Independent Man is set to return to his perch atop the Rhode Island State House. Crews will be on Smith Street using a crane to bring the gilded bronze statue back to the top at 10 a.m. Wednesday. No foot traffic will be allowed at the State House Plaza for safety reasons. Scaffolding will continue to surround the statue so crews can continue to work its base. The statue was temporarily taken down last year after drone footage revealed a crack in its marble base. RELATED: How much is it costing RI to restore the Independent Man? It has since been dressed in a new layer of gold leaf and was on display for the public to get an up-close look. The statue was designed by artist George Brewster and cast by the Gorham Manufacturing Company of Providence. It has weathered every storm since it was secured atop the State House in 1899 before it was last removed in 1975 to get a new gold coating. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Watch Now: Livestreaming SIGN UP NOW