Crozet’s new library inches forward

This is the type of information dissemination that this blog is about – Crozet-specific announcements, news, etc. This new library has the potential to invigorate Crozet even more.

We are  pleased to announce that Albemarle County is in final contract negotiations  with the architectural firm of Grimm and Parker for site selection analysis  and design of our new Crozet Library.

Eight  firms responded to the countys request for proposals, submitting credentials,  experience, references, examples of work and design philosophies.  These eight proposals were reviewed and scored by county and  Jefferson-Madison Regional Library (JMRL) representatives, and the top three  firms were identified.  These three firms were then invited  to make formal presentations to, and be interviewed by an architect selection  committee, consisting of five county representatives, JMRL library director,  John Halliday, Library Board Representative, Tim Tolson, Building Advisory  Committee representatives, Tom Hurst and William Schrader, and  myself.

Grimm and Parker was voted the committees top choice.  Out of McLean, Virginia, Grimm and Parker will partner with the local firm of Heyward Boyd, and will bring thirty years of library design experience to our  project.  Factors contributing to this firms selection  include the firms dedication to the community input process, creative and  innovative design concepts, and the ability to stay on budget.  John Halliday has spoken with library directors who have worked with  Grimm and Parker, and has heard only praise for this firm. 

This  Friday, library representatives, representatives of the Building Advisory  Committee and county staff will be visiting two Grimm and Parker libraries in  Maryland.
 
Three  building sites are still under consideration, two downtown sites and the old  school site.  Grimm and Parker will be conducting public  forums to gather input and work through the pros and cons of the various  sites. Stay tuned for announcements of these forums!  We want your input!

I feel certain that, with  Grimm and Parker as our design team and the creative input and energies of the  dedicated library community, were headed for a beautiful and dynamic Crozet  Library, a true reflection of our community. 

If you’d like more  information, or have suggestions or concerns, please feel free to  contact:

Building Advisory  Committee Representatives: William Schrader and Thomas Hurst, Library Board Representative Tim Tolson.

The “staying on budget” aspect is exciting – will penalty clauses be written into the Contract?