El Cerrito's library, established in 1948, faces significant challenges due to its size, safety concerns, and lack of accessibility. Plans for modernization have been researched for over twenty years, as the current facility struggles to meet community demands. A proposed $21 million replacement library is included in BART's development of the Plaza Station, expected to triple the library's footprint. With a reserved space of 20,000 square feet, the project aims to enhance the downtown area and save the city approximately $10 million.
The educational community hub at 6510 Stockton Ave. is worn like a well-read book. Built in 1948, El Cerrito's library is a quaint, mid-century modern building that is too small, seismically unsafe, built with hazardous materials and not fully accessible to seniors and people with disabilities.
Conceptual plans for a $21 million replacement are currently penciled into BART's ongoing transformation envisioned for the El Cerrito Plaza Station, which would triple the library's current footprint after construction begins by 2028.
City officials reserved the proposed 20,000-square-foot space along Fairmount Avenue in 2019 - seen as an anchor for downtown El Cerrito - within plans for the mixed-use, transit-oriented project, which includes nearly 750 residential units, commercial retail and open space.
The deal would also save El Cerrito an estimated $10 million, compared to a standalone library. BART's vision for Plaza Station is the only viable option on the table.
Collection
[
|
...
]