INDIANAPOLIS — Renovation of two Eastside branch libraries will begin in mid-March following the awarding of construction contracts by The Indianapolis Public Library Board of Trustees.
Library trustees have awarded a contract to MacDougall Pierce Construction, Inc. of Noblesville in the amount $1.7 million for the renovation and expansion of the East Washington Branch, 2822 E. Washington Street, constructed in 1910 as one of two original Carnegie libraries still operating in Indianapolis. The 5,600-square-foot branch will undergo a 2,200-square-foot northward expansion that will include a 20-unit computer lab, updated restrooms and enhanced children’s space. Further renovations will create better access with the installation of an elevator, new interior stairway and other updates that will maintain the historical integrity of the branch. With an estimated completion date of October 2016, the project represents the first major upgrade in the branch’s illustrious history.
Another contract has been awarded to Mezzetta, Inc. of Indianapolis in the amount of $884,600 for the renovation of the 15,740-square-foot Warren Branch, 9701 E. 21st Street. This first major renovation since the branch opened in 1974 will include a relocated entrance nearer the parking lot, new and separate areas for children and teens, reconfigured restrooms and additional access to technology. A new drive-up book drop is planned as well as an expanded circulation area, a marketplace for exhibits and displays, and dedicated study areas. An estimated completion date is September 2016.
The East Washington and Warren branch projects will follow renovation of the 16,000-square-foot Southport Branch, currently targeted for a July completion.
