The process for developing a new Branch Library for the South End has begun! Public Facilities Department (PFD) Senior Project Manager, (Jay) Rohn McNulty reports that 14 architectural firms have submitted proposals for the redesign. Most of the proposals have come from Boston-based firms, including a few located in the South End. Notably, one submission came from Mitchell Giurgola, the NY architectural firm that designed the current building.

PFD and the Design Selection Committee is reviewing the full list based on criteria including professional experience, engineering and mechanical expertise, LEED experience (green buildings), previous urban projects, and experience with community meetings. The ranking process will yield a short list of three firms by the end of April, followed by a final recommendation to the PFD Commission. After the selection, fees will be negotiated and a contract drafted and signed. It is hoped that this phase will be complete by the end of June. Once the contract is in place, the architects will begin community engagement to gain a full understanding of the South End and our residents’ needs.

We are pleased to report that FOSEL President Yvette Jarreau has been invited to participate in the Design Selection Committee, which will next meet on April 28th.