denver library renovation projects get design funding

The first step towards an ambitious upgrading and renovation project at the Central Library in downtown Denver is about to be taken with the announcement of $4 million in general obligation funding for the design part of that work.

That project is one of several systemwide library projects getting bond money.

The popular and well-used Central Library at 10 W. 14th Avenue Parkway sees up to 2,600 patrons a day.

But, according to library officials, partly because of the building’s heavy traffic, the facility has long been in need of such basic work as upgrading its escalators, elevators, and HVAC system.

Now some $5.3 million in bond funding will go for the design of the Central Library’s renovation project, while upwards of $341,000 will pay for design work at the Blair Caldwell African-American Research Library at 2401 Welton Street, on the northeast side of city.

In addition, $174,000 in general obligation funding will target renovation design work at the Byers Branch Library at 675 Santa Fe Drive on the south side of Denver; and $184,000 for the same purposes at the Smiley Branch Library on the city’s north end at 4501 W. 46th Avenue.

The funding for the various library projects is coming out of the first round of $937 million general obligation bonds approved by Denver voters last November. 

By Garry Boulard

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