Additional City Funding

On November 19, 2024, the Richmond City Council appropriated an additional $4,100,000 for the Main Library Renovation.

With this additional funding the project budget is now $34 million.

Between October 2023 and June 2024, additional structural and system issues were identified and cost estimates for the design plans exceeded the available funding. Combined, staff identified a shortfall costing approximately $4.1 million. 

This additional funding will cover the following improvements:

  • Replacing the roof - the roof is 15 years old and leaks. A major renovation to the building without replacing a roof that is nearing its lifespan may be a disservice to the community and not recommended for a long-term solution. 
  • Replacing the photovoltaic system (solar panels) - the panels are not working properly and need to be replaced.
  • Upgrading the generator - the current generator cannot power the Library building during power outages due to capacity limitation and requires upsizing to meet the Library electricity needs and support the building as a resiliency center. 
  • New trash enclosure - building a dedicated trash enclosure will help with keeping the facility clean. Currently there is no trash enclosure for the building.
  • Water proofing in the basement - the Library has a tunnel/crawl space around the perimeter of the building which connects to a central basement location under the building. Improving the water proofing system will mitigate and prevent water damage. 

On May 23, 2023, the Richmond City Council approved an additional $15 million for the Main Library renovation.

With this additional funding the project budget is now $29.9 million.

This additional funding helps ensure that all work outlined under the Building Forward grant agreement is completed while also allowing for additional renovations to the space. Renovations beyond the scope of the Building Forward project will be driven by community needs and desires, to be gathered during an outreach and engagement process that this funding makes possible.

The City has contracted with Noll & Tam Architects for the design of the renovations to the Library. Noll & Tam is consulting with Library staff, other City staff, and elected officials about the design of the Library and, in conjunction with Contigo Communications, has conducted outreach and focus groups with the Richmond community.

Please visit the Community Presentations page to view information and plans presented at past public meetings.