FINAL FY16 CPC West Branch Library Recommendation — File 201172

JOSEPH A. CURTATONE MAYOR COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE FY16 FUNDING RECOMMENDATION FOR WEST BRANCH LIBRARY RENOVATION, CITY OF SOMERVILLE PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed project will provide resources for the City of Somerville to restore and preserve the existing library interior and exterior, make the grounds around the library accessible for recreational uses and ensure ADA compliance. The proposed design was developed and the final option selected based on community input. ELIGIBILITY Blended- open space/recreational land and historic resources: The West Branch Library is listed on the National and State Register of Historical Places. The proposed project seeks to preserve, rehabilitate and restore the Library. The Library commits to complying with the standards of the Historic Preservation Commission and the US Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. The Library plans to construct a community meeting room addition that is not eligible for CPA funding and was excluded from the funding request in the application. The Library renovation also seeks to create useable passive recreation space on the Library grounds, so will create, preserve, rehabilitate and restore open space/recreational land. RECOMMENDED FUNDING- PRELIMINARY DISCUSSION On March 30, 2016 by a vote of 6-0 the Community Preservation Committee recommended bonding for $2,500,000 for the historic preservation of the building interior and exterior of West Branch Public Library. CITY OF SOMERVILLE, MASSACHUSETTS COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE 1

JOSEPH A. CURTATONE MAYOR Project Budget Expenses Amount Soft costs $1,900,665 Construction $8,282,270 Total $10,182,935 Sources CPA historic resources funds- requested $5,394,328 City of Somerville $4,788,607 Total $10,182,935 ALIGNMENT WITH FY16 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PLAN The Community Preservation Plan prioritizes projects that address two of more of the CPA focus areas- this project will preserve and restore both historic resources (the West Branch Library) and open space/recreational land (the green space around the Library). By making the space around the Library more accessible for recreational use, the proposed project could also creatively and coherently combine multiple uses that meet community need. The Plan prioritizes historic resources projects that address crucial, longstanding needs in Somerville’s historic landmarks and properties, especially those at risk. The proposed project also seeks to improve accessibility for all members of the community. FUNDING CONDITIONS 1. The City of Somerville must receive all necessary approvals for this project, including from the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board, the Massachusetts Historical Commission, the Historic Preservation Commission, and the Zoning Board of Appeals. 2. CPC funds will be released to the City of Somerville for this project when the City of Somerville can document they have secured sufficient funds for the project to go forward. 3. The City of Somerville must present the final approved plans for the West Branch Library to the CPC before funds will be disbursed. 4. Upon commencement of the Project and as appropriate, the Grantee agrees to post a sign stating that the Project was funded through the City of Somerville’s Community Preservation Act program. The full proposal is available at: http://www.somervillema.gov/cpa/projects/2016 2