City accepts grant for library remodel project
By Dan Thesman on Thursday, December 26th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla City Council voted unanimously at its Dec. 18 meeting to accept a grant, which involves $7 million committed by anonymous donors, for the Walla Walla Public Library remodel project.
Walla Walla City Manager Elizabeth Chamberlain explained to council that by accepting this grant, funds will be released in stages, beginning with $500,000 in July 2025. Primarily, these funds will be used for the library’s capital campaign, as $6 million still needs to be raised. The remaining three installments will be linked to construction progress.
The goal is to start bidding on the project by 2026, depending on fundraising success. Currently, the design firm is working on the master plan, assessing structural elements of the existing library, such as walls and the HVAC system. Visual representations of the project will be available in February, along with public engagement efforts.
The project design includes creating a grand entrance, referred to as the great hall, to direct visitors into the library. The layout is being designed to accommodate staff and public areas effectively. Restroom placements and plumbing are still being determined, with a transition to schematic design anticipated in the coming months.
During the Dec. 18 meeting, there was discussion about the additional funds, which total $10 million, accounting for city obligations and available grants. The overall fundraising goal is set at $16 million but may need adjustment based on project developments.
Council members expressed support for the resolution and emphasized the importance of public engagement as the design progresses. Acknowledgments of transparency in funding were also mentioned, as the city will need to work with the anonymous donors regarding public disclosures.
The resolution, 2024-112, was moved for adoption by Councilman Jeffrey Robinson and approved unanimously. The agreement, written by the Blue Mountain Community Foundation, was reviewed by the city’s legal counsel, ensuring proper oversight for the ambitious library project and its funding.
Graphic via city of Walla Walla
