Construction ongoing at the historic Pasadena Central Library, set for renovation.
The Pasadena City Council has approved a $3.45 million contract amendment with Gruen Associates for the seismic retrofit and renovation of the historic Central Library. This amendment increases the contract total to $9.56 million, ensuring continued design and project management services. The renovation aims to blend historical preservation with modern enhancements, with the reopening projected for 2028. Community feedback has been prioritized, focusing on accessibility and multi-purpose spaces while maintaining the library’s character.
The Pasadena City Council has moved forward with a significant funding initiative, approving a contract amendment of $3.45 million with Gruen Associates. This adjustment is designed to enhance their role in the ongoing seismic retrofit and renovation of the city’s historic Central Library. With this new funding, the total value of Contract No. 32526 will increase to $9.56 million.
The amended contract allows Gruen Associates to continue providing essential design and project management services until the project is completed. Utilizing a Construction Manager At-Risk (CMAR) delivery model, the project is anticipated to reopen the Central Library to the public by 2028.
Originally designed by architect Myron Hunt, the Central Library first opened its doors in 1927. The library holds a distinguished position on the National Register of Historic Places and has long been a vital cultural and educational institution in Pasadena. However, the library had to close its doors in 2021 due to seismic risks inherent to its unreinforced masonry construction.
Before its closure, the Central Library attracted around 1,000 visitors daily and facilitated hundreds of events each year, underscoring its significance in the community.
Gruen Associates was initially awarded a contract in February 2023 valued at up to $6.1 million. So far, the firm has completed approximately 90% of the design work, focusing on seismic strengthening, historic preservation, and system upgrades. The recent amendment expands their responsibilities, which include aiding in the CMAR selection process and overseeing construction administration.
The city’s staff recommended bypassing the competitive bidding process due to Gruen’s extensive understanding of the library’s historical significance and existing structure. The contract represents about 7.75% of the project’s estimated direct construction costs, which is considered a prudent allocation of resources.
Funding sources for this project are partly derived from Measure PL, a $195 million bond measure that was approved by Pasadena voters in 2024. Importantly, the increase in the contract will not impose any burden on the city’s General Fund, as financing will be managed through the Central Library Seismic Retrofit budget.
Looking ahead, construction bids and contract awards are expected to finalize by the summer of 2025. Once the construction phase begins, it is projected to last between 30 to 36 months. The project aims to not only preserve the historic elements of the library but also to modernize its facilities.
Community outreach efforts have gathered valuable feedback from residents, emphasizing the need to retain the library’s character while also enhancing accessibility. Proposed improvements include creating flexible, multi-purpose spaces, improving access for individuals with disabilities, and integrating enhanced technology into the library’s offerings.
The Central Library has historically played a crucial role in community engagement, hosting 232 group events and 876 meetings prior to its closure. As part of the renovations, the Circulation Hall will feature a redesigned layout aimed at improving accessibility and facilitating community gatherings.
The importance of the Central Library as a hub of free resources and community interaction is noted by the Library Director. Future design plans will continue to incorporate public input, guided by recommendations from the Pasadena Central Library Community Programming Committee. This ongoing engagement reflects a commitment to ensuring that the Central Library remains a cornerstone of cultural and educational support within Pasadena.
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