TETER-designed new library receives $2,700,000 grant!
Article originally printed in the Merced Sun-Star on September 15, 2022 by reporter Abbie Lauten-Scrivner
Dos Palos library project gets $2.7 million funding boost.
MERCED COUNTY – Funding for the Dos Palos library project was nearly doubled this week with the injection of an extra $2.7 million, Merced County announced.
The new funds were secured from the California State Library’s highly competitive Building Forward Library Improvement Grant Program, according to a county news release.
The more than $2.7 million in grant dollars awarded will be leveraged to relocate the Dos Palos library branch from its current location (Golden Gate Avenue and Almond Street) to its new home at O’Banion Park, next to the Dale Hall Community Center.
The current Dos Palos branch of the Merced County Library was constructed in 1963. The building has major structural and accessibility issues. It is the only library within a 17-mile radius, the release said.
“The project is part of an overall effort to bring much-needed upgrades to the communities throughout Merced County“, Board of Supervisors Chairman Llyod Pareira said in the release.
“There are several parks, community facilities, and other types of public infrastructure throughout Merced County that are in need of major upgrades. While there may not be enough local resources to complete this work in the immediate terms, we’ve made a point of fighting for grant funding, and we’re seeing those efforts pay off significantly.”
Hopeful estimates for completing the new 3,561 square-foot library is approximately a two-year timeline. The site is currently shovel-ready.
Once completed, the new library will serve as a location for residents to apply for job benefits, access literacy program, and learn new skills and knowledge.
“This is a major win for the residents in and around Dos Palos, and they certainly deserve it. I’d like to personally thank California State Library Greg Lucas for this grant opportunity.” said Supervisor Scott Silveira.
