Sandy Library Construction: September 2011

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Walk-through on August 31

I took a walk through the building today. I'd like to share some of the views from the inside. First of all... look what the builders found:

BONES! Don't worry, they aren't human. They must be cow bones. The building used to be a grocery, and I know there was a smoke-house, and I think a butcher too. So I guess their presence shouldn't be too surprising. But they have to be more than 50 years old! Amazing how this kind of project can pique your interest in the history of a place. Here are a couple more pictures from the inside:

This picture shows the new ramp, and it shows the upper mezzanine level which will be used for storage and staff support. The entry into the library is going to open up about half of the upper level on the northwest corner of the building.

Here is another picture from the inside. This is looking towards what used to be our front door. It is going to be part of the children's area when we re-open. I hope you enjoy these pictures. Do you have any early memories about this building? Post to the blog and let us know!

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Frequently Asked Questions:

Why are they tearing the whole building down for a remodel?

Part of the remodel plan is to bring the 70+ year old building up to current seismic code. This involves removing the North wall and other major portions, but the load bearing walls and much of the structure will remain.

Are we going to be over budget with such extensive demolition?

We have used a CMGC (Construction Management / General Contractor) model to negotiate a GMP (guaranteed maximum price) for the expansion / renovation of the library building, which includes all of the demolition. Our contractor: P&C Construction has an excellent reputation as a CMGC firm. This process has allowed them to be involved much earlier in the process than contractors employed by the traditional design-bid-build model, allowing for a more accurate estimate. Although we don’t expect any big surprises, the renovation budget includes contingencies for unexpected construction costs.

What is going to happen with the upstairs?

About half of the upper mezzanine level in the library building is going to go away to accommodate the new entrance. The other half will become storage and a support area for the library staff.

How long will you be in the temporary space?

We estimate that we will be here for 10 - 12 months. We'll be able to update that estimate as the project moves forward.

What will the new library be like?

We are taking over the Police station part of the building. Most of that space will become a room for library programs, and for public use. This room will be well equipped to handle the technology needed for presentations and classes.

The renovated library will be airy and filled with light. It will be much more energy efficient, and will display the "Sandy Style", much like the updated façade of many buildings in town. There will be an inviting lounge area with a fireplace, and a fun "grove" of trees in the children's area.

There will be more room for our collections, and we will continue to provide high-speed internet access and computers. Eventually we'll checkout laptops for use in the library, and have self-checkout machines.

What happened to all of the personalized bricks that were in front of the library?

Those bricks were cleaned, removed and are being stored until they can be replaced.