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 contract amendment worth $3.45 million with Gruen Associates, expanding their role in the crucial seismic retrofit and renovation of the historic Central Library. This amendment increases the total value of Contract No. 32526 to $9.56 million. The decision ensures that Gruen Associates will continue providing essential design and project management services until the project reaches completion.
Originally designed by notable architect Myron Hunt, the Central Library, which opened its doors in 1927, has been recognized for its architectural significance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has served as a vital cultural and educational center in Pasadena, attracting approximately 1,000 visitors daily prior to its closure in 2021. The closure was necessitated due to the seismic risks posed by its unreinforced masonry construction.
Project Overview
The renovation project aims to blend historical preservation with modern enhancements. The library’s reopening is projected for 2028, and will utilize a Construction Manager At-Risk (CMAR) delivery model to ensure efficient management and execution. Gruen Associates had initially been awarded a contract in February 2023 for a maximum of $6.1 million, and they have already made significant progress, completing approximately 90% of the design work. This work includes seismic strengthening, historical preservation efforts, and overhaul of the library’s systems.
The recent contract amendment addresses increased responsibilities for Gruen Associates, which now includes assisting in the selection process for the CMAR and managing construction administration. City staff recommended the contract increase without going through competitive bidding, highlighting Gruen’s in-depth knowledge of the building which is crucial for the successful completion of the renovation project.
Funding Sources
The revised contract represents about 7.75% of the project’s estimated direct construction costs. Funding will be sourced in part from Measure PL, a $195 million bond measure approved by Pasadena voters in 2024. Importantly, the increase in the contract amount will not have any impact on the city’s General Fund, as it will be managed under the Central Library Seismic Retrofit budget.
Construction bids and contract awards are expected to take place by summer 2025, with construction anticipated to last 30-36 months following the award of the contract.
Community Engagement and Future Design
As part of the renovation, outreach efforts were carried out to collect public feedback, emphasizing the importance of retaining the library’s character while making it more accessible. Proposed improvements include the introduction of flexible, multi-purpose spaces, upgrades for accessibility, and enhancements to the library’s technological infrastructure. Before its shutdown, the Central Library hosted 232 group events and facilitated 876 meetings on an annual basis, demonstrating its role as a community hub.
One of the key focuses of the renovation is the Circulation Hall, which will feature a redesigned layout aimed at improving accessibility and facilitating community gatherings. The library’s director has expressed the significance of the Central Library as a hub for free resources and community engagement. Future design updates will continue to incorporate public input along with recommendations from the Pasadena Central Library Community Programming Committee, ensuring the library remains a vital resource for the community.
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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
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