Pasadena City Council Approves Central Library Renovation Funding

News Summary

The Pasadena City Council has approved a $3.45 million contract amendment with Gruen Associates for the seismic retrofit and renovation of the historic Central Library. This amendment increases the contract total to $9.56 million, ensuring continued design and project management services. The renovation aims to blend historical preservation with modern enhancements, with the reopening projected for 2028. Community feedback has been prioritized, focusing on accessibility and multi-purpose spaces while maintaining the library’s character.

Pasadena City Council Approves $3.45 Million Contract Amendment for Central Library Renovation

The Pasadena City Council has approved a significant amendment to a contract with Gruen Associates, adding $3.45 million to enhance the seismic retrofit and renovation of the historic Central Library. With this amendment, the total value of Contract No. 32526 will increase to $9.56 million, allowing Gruen Associates to continue their vital design and project management services through to the project’s completion.

This updated contract not only expands Gruen Associates’ responsibilities but also introduces a Construction Manager At-Risk (CMAR) delivery model for the renovation. The Central Library, originally designed by architect Myron Hunt and opened in 1927, is expected to reopen its doors to the community by 2028. The library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, serving as an essential cultural and educational institution in Pasadena.

The Central Library was closed in 2021 due to safety concerns associated with its unreinforced masonry construction. Before its closure, the library registered around 1,000 visitors daily and hosted hundreds of events each year. The upcoming renovation aims to combine crucial seismic upgrades with the preservation of the library’s historic features.

Gruen Associates was first contracted in February 2023 for a maximum amount of $6.1 million. The firm has made significant progress, completing 90% of the design work, which includes seismic strengthening measures, conservation of historic elements, and improvements to various systems. The recent contract amendment will also cover tasks like assisting in the CMAR selection process and managing construction administration.

The city’s staff recommended skipping competitive bidding for this amendment, recognizing Gruen’s extensive knowledge about the building and its unique requirements. The increase in the contract represents approximately 7.75% of the project’s estimated direct construction costs, which are supported in part by Measure PL, a $195 million bond measure approved by Pasadena voters in 2024. Importantly, this increase will not affect the city’s General Fund since it will be financed through the library’s seismic retrofit budget.

Construction bids and contract awards for the project are expected to be finalized by summer 2025. Construction itself is projected to take between 30 and 36 months after the contract award, integrating modern features while also maintaining the library’s traditional character. Community outreach has played a crucial role in shaping the renovation plans, capturing input from residents who emphasized the importance of preserving the library’s identity while increasing accessibility.

Proposed improvements include the creation of flexible multi-purpose spaces, upgrades to accessibility, and enhancements to existing technology. The Circulation Hall will undergo a redesigned layout that enhances accessibility and encourages community gatherings. The library has historically played a pivotal role in educational and cultural enrichment, evidenced by hosting 232 group events and 876 meetings before its closure.

Library Director Tim McDonald noted that the Central Library serves as a crucial hub for free resources and community engagement. Future design plans will remain inclusive of public input, following recommendations from the Pasadena Central Library Community Programming Committee, ensuring that the renovation caters to the community’s needs while honoring the library’s historic significance.

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Additional Resources

• Pasadena Now: Pasadena Approves $3.45 Million Contract Amendment
• Pasadena Star News: Election 2024 Results for Pasadena’s Library Bond
• Hey SoCal: Pasadena Voters Approve Measure PL for Retrofitting Central Library
• LAist: Pasadena City Council Considers $195 Million Bond for Central Library
• Pasadena Weekly: Pasadena City Council Discusses Central Library Redesign
• Wikipedia: Pasadena, California
• Google Search: Central Library Pasadena
• Google Scholar: Pasadena Central Library
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Pasadena
• Google News: Pasadena