PRRD directors have awarded a $4.55-million contract to Celtic Construction of Dawson Creek to build the new library in Chetwynd.
The new library is a joint effort between Area E and Chetwynd, and the regional district says its advisory committee is now "putting the finishing touches" on its final design, from colour schemes to furniture.
Shovels are due in the ground this spring to replace the current 50-year-old library, and the PRRD says the approximate 8,600-square-foot new facility will feature spaces for children's programming and storytelling, as well as a makerspace and virtual reality room along with other multi-purpose rooms, an outdoor patio, and indoor cafe area.
Funding will come from a combination of sources, including $2 million in gas taxes and provincial Peace River Agreement grant funds from Electoral Area E, $1 million from the District of Chetwynd, $890,000 from the Chetwynd Library Board, as well as other grants and other short-term borrowing.
Feasibility studies for the new library began in 2017, and Field Lievers Architecture of Grande Prairie was hired in January for architecture and engineering services, and to develop a conceptual design.
The PRRD and the Northeast BC Community Foundation have also launched a donation drive to help finance the construction.
Check out some of the artist renderings of the new library below:
Floor plan:
Main entry and circulation desk:
Library stacks
Storytelling space:
View from the skate park/highway:
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