Contract Award to HKP Architects

​Earlier in June City Council approved a $2.5 million contract with HKP Architects to perform the design and engineering work for the new Library Commons project.  HKP is a local firm whose founder, Henry Klein, was the principal architect on the current library when it was constructed in 1955.  Julie Blazek, a partner in the firm, expressed her wonderful opportunity to design the library her 6-year old granddaughter will be able to enjoy well into the future.  The total project cost is expected to be around $43 million for the combined parking structure, library and community center facility.  The project is currently approximately 60% funded based on sales tax proceeds being returned to the city, $500,000 from the County from economic development funds and transportation funds that will be available with the inclusion of electric vehicle charging stations.  Grants and other funding sources are being explored.  Primary next steps are to conduct geotechnical analysis which will determine how the building foundation will need to be designed.  HKP has also already started discussions with library and city staff to determine the key features that should be included in the design.