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June 10, 2010

County going out to bid for library expansion project

http://www.philyburbs.comJ
une 9, 2010
Burlington County Times
The Burlington County Freeholders voted tonight to advertise for bids for its planned expansion and renovation of the main branch of the County Library in Westampton.

The estimated $6 million overhaul will be the first capital project in the county to take advantage of some $15.6 million in federal stimulus aid through the use of recovery zone bonds, officials said.

By using the bonds, the federal government will reimburse the county up to 45 percent of the interest paid on public capital projects in designated zones marked for economic development and job creation. Eligible projects must be funded by Jan. 1, 2011 to take advantage for the federal money.

The library plan was first announced in 2008. It is the first major expansion of the 39-year-old library since 1992, officials. Bids are due in July and work could start in September with the hopes of opening the new library in the fall of 2011.

It calls for a new roof and heating and cooling system at the building, as well as a new 250-seat auditorium, a larger exhibit area and café, a drive-up window for book drop off and pickup of requested items and an expanded area for teenagers, officials said.

Library Director Gail Sweet said the existing building will be expanded by 15,830 square feet. Some 4,800 square feet in the existing 54,000-square-foot facility will be renovated, she said.

The library will remain open during construction, officials said.

Posted by tumulty at June 10, 2010 6:04 AM

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