APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Appleton is targeting a mid-July groundbreaking for a new library, if the next round of construction bids are more favorable.
The city had hoped the library would be under construction by now, but when the bids opened in September were $14 million over budget, the city rejected them all and worked on revising the project.
In an update issued this week, Dean Gazza, Director of Parks Recreation and Facilities Management, and Colleen Rortvedt, Library Director, said they hope to have bids open in early June, the council then approve it, and construction start by mid-July.
Updated renderings are expected to be released within a few weeks.
The memo summarizes the latest changes:
“Major changes include reducing excavation, combining meeting spaces to serve a dual purpose, and shifting the location of meeting spaces. The new design still meets project objectives for accessibility, safety, sustainability, flexibility and connectivity, including:
- Increase in space for service to children and teens
- Additional spaces for collaboration and creation
- Increase in number of study and meetings rooms, with varying sizes and accommodations
- Lower shelving, two public elevators, and easier to navigate restrooms
- Improved sight lines for safety and a better browsing experience
- Geothermal system for heating and cooling, along with rooftop solar panels
- More natural light and overall improved lighting
- A more flexible floor plan allowing for the building to change with community needs
- Improved efficiency in staff spaces and layout
The revised design provides the library with the space to support current and future needs and is responsive to the feedback we heard from the community. In addition, it provides the flexibility to adapt to new and emerging needs for the future with a design that will serve our community for generations to come.”
Meanwhile, the Friends of the Appleton Public Library continue to raise private dollars for the project.
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