ABOUT THE LIBRARY
Steel Erection Underway for Central Library Transformation Project
July 1, 2005
Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library officials announced today that activity has re-commenced on the construction of the six-story, 293-thousand-square-foot addition to the historic Central Library, 40 E. St. Clair Street.
Following an approximate 16-month delay to identify and repair concrete deficiencies in the two-story underground parking garage located below the construction site, the first columns of steel were erected today for the structure that will house the Library's extensive collections and serve as a technologically-rich community learning center.
The steel contractor is Hagerman Construction of Indianapolis.
Library officials estimate completion of the steel construction by early 2006 with final project completion expected sometime in 2007.
"It's difficult to pinpoint an exact date for the opening of the transformed Central Library," stated Louis Mahern, President of the IMCPL Board of Trustees. "Although many variables may still come into play, we feel confident in projecting roughly a two-year time period to complete the project from this point on," added Mahern.
Required critical repairs on the underground garage concrete defects have been completed to allow steel construction to begin. Further needed repairs, however, will continue to occur in order to ensure the overall structural integrity of the garage.
Contrary to some accounts, Library officials emphasize that work on the overall transformation project has continued, despite delays in steel construction. Interior improvements within the historic Cret building have been substantially completed. Renovations include new mechanical and electrical systems, carpeting, wall finishes, lighting, glass replacement and reconstruction of the substructure under the building's south entrance that includes a new snow melt system.
In addition, a concrete slab has been poured for the Atrium, the four-story, glass-enclosed structure that will connect the original building with the new addition and serve as an activity hub for the transformed Library.
The estimated $103 million project is funded by a combination of public (approximately 55% bonds) and philanthropic support (45%). Library officials have pledged to aggressively pursue recovery of additional costs associated with the garage repairs, delay claims and attorney fees.
The Central Library transformation project is the cornerstone of the Library's overall plan for systemwide capital improvements.
