Somerville, MA – Local officials and CTA Construction staff were joined by members of the Somerville community recently to break ground on a number of renovations and improvements to the 100-year-old library.
The historic building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is classified as a Carnegie Library.
“The West Branch Library here in Somerville is an amazing historic institution and a vital public resource for residents and students in the area,” said Paul DuRoss, Principal at CTA Construction. “We’re excited and honored to be renovating this amazing space to make improvements and additions, which will significantly increase accessibility and create new and inviting spaces for visitors while maintaining the building’s unique historic character.”
During the renovation, CTA Construction will manage the modernization and updating of the storied building, allowing for better access as well as enhanced operations and programming. Among the new additions are new multipurpose and flex spaces to host library-sponsored programs, public meetings and other events. The renovation design also includes designated quiet reading and study areas, and an indoor/outdoor book drop.
Beyond enhanced visitor spaces and public meeting rooms, the renovated West Branch library will see modernizing overhauls to its mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and computer networking systems, as well as a new elevator. On the exterior of the site, improved landscaping will create ample green and open space. A new accessible entryway will also provide easier and more convenient access.
These updates will allow the West Branch Library to increase programming opportunities for individuals of all ages and create a more visitor-friendly space. CTA partnered with architect Ben Youtz of designLAB Architects on the renovation, and will work closely with Owner’s Project Manager John Sayre-Scibona of Design Technique Inc. for the duration of the project.
Waltham-based CTA Construction has completed more than 65 high-quality municipal construction projects in the Commonwealth since it was founded in 2000, making the company one of the most experienced municipal builders in the state.
