Item Description:
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Schematic Design Contract for the Penn Lake Library Refurbishment (1005181); Contract PR00006734 with RoehrSchmitt Architecture LLC, for architectural and engineering services, 04/01/25-07/31/25, NTE $99,700
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that authorization to proceed with schematic design for the Penn Lake Library Refurbishment (1005181) be approved; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Contract PR00006734 with RoehrSchmitt Architecture LLC for architectural and engineering services for the Schematic Design Phase of the for the Penn Lake Library Refurbishment (1005181) during the period April 1, 2025 through July 31, 2025, in an amount not to exceed $99,700 be approved; that the Chair of the Board be authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the County and that the Controller be authorized to disburse funds as directed.
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Background:
The Penn Lake Library, located at 8800 Penn Ave S, Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a single story, 14,909 gross square foot (GSF) facility. Constructed in 1969, the building is situated on a 2.17 acres site. Major remodel improvements were made to the library in 2002 and the library's interior public spaces were remodeled and updated in 2012. In 2023, a targeted condition assessment of the facility was completed with the findings identifying infrastructure components that are deteriorating due to age, moisture intrusion, and heavy use.
This project will implement overdue improvements and repairs to address critical infrastructure and preservation issues at the Penn Lake Library to ensure long-term integrity and functionality of the facility asset. The project will primarily focus on the exterior asset protection work, stormwater improvements and other sustainable initiatives, which will further the county’s climate action goals. The project scope will include improvements necessary to address building code compliance requirements (restrooms and egress walkways). Interior areas for improvement include sightlines throughout the library that take better advantage of the building’s ample access to natural light, a refresh of the furniture with more variety and quantity, and a redesign of the circulation desk. The project will balance preserving the best elements of the existing building while introducing welcoming and exciting new furniture that solve some of the building’s challenges.
The design phases are scheduled to continue until mid-2026. Following this, move out and abatement is targeted for later summer 2026 with construction substantially complete by fall 2027. This timeline aims for a grand opening late 2027. The library will be closed during construction for approximately 15 months.
Current Request: Approval is requested for Contract PR00006734 with RoehrSchmitt Architecture LLC for architectural and engineering services for the Schematic Design Phase of the Penn Lake Library Refurbishment (1005181); during the period April 1, 2025 through July 31, 2025, in an amount not to exceed $99,700.
RoehrSchmitt Architecture LLC was selected by the County Staff Selection Group in the first quarter of 2024.
Impact/Outcomes: The library will be designed to meet the needs and expectations of the diverse and growing community of Richfield and surrounding metro communities such as Edina, Minneapolis and Bloomington, and to provide a welcoming and accessible space for learning, creativity, and civic engagement.
The project will provide:
1. Flexibility and adaptability to respond to changing program needs over time
2. Sustainable design to improve stormwater management and promote human health and well-being
3. Facility asset preservation improvements to address critical infrastructure and building system requirements
4. Technology to offer creativity and opportunity.
The project will align with the Hennepin County Climate Action Plan. The project will explore potential energy-saving strategies through passive and active design.
recommendation
Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval