‘Landmark’ Ottawa library inches toward construction as design revealed
By On-Site Staff
Construction
A rendering of the joint library project to be build not far from Parliament Hill. PHOTO: Library and Archives Canada
A joint federal-municipal library project in Ottawa is one step closer to shovel ready.
Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson and federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Catherine McKenna, among other officials, revealed the design Jan. 23 for the major new project expected to cost $192.9 million.
Construction on the collaborative project is still about a year away, with several stakeholders needing to sign off on the design, which includes a stone and wood exterior. Diamond Schmitt Architects and Ottawa-based KWC Architects worked together on the design of the building, which they say is supposed to be reminiscent of the Ottawa River.
Once built, the Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada will share the facility at 555 Albert Street — not far from Parliament Hill. The city will put up $104.2 million and hold a 61 per cent stake in the project, while the federal government will contribute $70.6 million and control the remain interest. Construction of a $18.1 million parking garage is also part of the project.
With a groundbreaking scheduled for 2021, the procurement process is expected to get underway later this year.
