'Wrapped' attention. (The Roving Eye).

ANYONE happening through Hollywood during the past couple of weeks may have noticed the Griffith Observatory enclosed in what appeared to be a giant roll of white plastic wrap.

The material -- actually a fabric called Hipp Wrap -- has nothing to do with the artist Christo. It was installed as part of the ongoing $83 million renovation and expansion of the venerable Los Angeles Art Deco landmark.

Begun last fall, the work is "rounding first base," according to Larry Gonsalves, project manager for the Los Angeles Public Works Department's bureau of engineering.

Hipp Wrap was used to prevent the spread of dust and debris released by the stripping of decades of lead-based paints from the building's concrete surface.

"The whole thing was entirely wrapped only for a couple of days. We've been removing it as we complete sections," Gonsalves said.

Completed in 1935, the observatory closed on Jan. 30, 2002 for its first major facelift. The expansion will largely take place underground, as more than 30,000 cubic yards of dirt will be removed from the front lawn area to build a 200-seat theater, a cafe, a new terrace and new exhibits for the observatory museum, among other improvements. Meanwhile, engineers are taking pains to protect the historic elements, such as the observatory's two telescopes.

So far, $59 million of the projected $83 million cost has been identified through public funds and donations. That leaves $24 million yet to be raised. Edwin Krupp, an astronomer and director of the observatory acknowledged that would be a challenge.

"It's never easy to raise to $24 million, but this is in great shape as far as a public project is concerned," Krupp said. "This is one of the most visible projects in Los Angeles and it is stunning what's occurring."