Council to discuss growth for WW Public Library
By Terry Murry on Monday, February 7th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA — The Walla Walla City Council will explore expanding the Walla Walla Public Library into East Alder Street and the potential of a pedestrian plaza from South Spokane Street to East Palouse Street at today’s (Monday) work session which begins at 4 p.m.
Last year, the council authorized a contract with SHKS Architects to perform design work for a small expansion and renovation project for the library, according to Walla Walla Public Library Director Erin Wells. The contract provides preliminary architectural plans and cost estimates for design and construction. Beginning in 2022, a total of $1 million dollars was identified for city American Rescue Plan funds. The Washington State Department of Commerce offers a matching grant up to $2 million dollars with a May 1 deadline. These architectural plans and estimates allow the library to apply for this grant.
Since that time potential donors have come forward and have discussed a large donation to the library to allow expansion and renovation on a grander scale than what was originally planned. However, due to the limitations of the lot, it may be necessary to expand the library out further than the current site. This would allow the library to have a multi-use facility with the potential of a daycare space, or space for other area agencies. It also has the added benefit of not requiring the library to move and purchase more land. Currently, no final decisions have been made on the potential for this project. With council’s approval, the library wants to continue exploring this idea with the architect, the potential donors and city staff.
The council will also get an update on the community paramedic program and its funding. Created in May 2021, the program is designed to reduce avoidable ambulance runs and divert unnecessary visits to the Emergency Department at Providence St. Mary Medical Center. The funding for the program, through a partnership with Providence Population Health, provided for a one-year trial period. The Walla Walla Fire Department is seeking to expand the program to reach more citizens and address the unique challenges that they face.
Also on the agenda, council will review the First Avenue Plaza final design prior to putting the permanent public gathering space project out to bid. First Avenue Plaza is located between East Main Street and East Alder Street.
