Pitt Meadows Library to Move

November 6, 2008

CITY OF PITT MEADOWS
News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 31 2008 #2008-16
For further information, call
Dean Rear , Director of Corporate Services, 604-465-2449
dmaclean@pittmeadows.bc.ca

PITT MEADOWS LIBRARY TO BECOME PART OF NEW SOLARIS DEVELOPMENT

PITT MEADOWS, B.C. - Last night's celebration of the library's 20^th anniversary included the announcement of a deal between the City of Pitt Meadows and RG Properties for the library's relocation. RG Properties approached the municipality about housing the library at Meadows Gate, the new mixed-use development located on the corner of Harris and Ford Road. After considerable negotiations a deal has been finalized and Council has given approval for the library's move.

Last night's anniversary celebration included a history of the small library that has outgrown its current home. With Mayor Peter Fassbender, Chair of the FVRL (Fraser Valley Regional Library) board and the FVRL Acting CEO, Rob O'Brennan present, Pitt Meadows Mayor Don MacLean made the special announcement to a gathering of about 30 people. Mayor MacLean unveiled very preliminary plans for a 12,000 sq ft new library on the second floor of Solaris, the first of three towers, at Meadows Gate. In addition to expanding the library's overall collection, the new facility will incorporate additional informational services, a lounge area and an expanded computer lab.

"If the new civic square is to become this community's backyard then the library will be our new living room" added Mayor MacLean.

The ten year lease agreement frees up the current library space for future municipal needs. In addition to a reasonable and secure leasing rate, the developer has provided substantial leasehold improvements.

"We are excited to be working with the City on the new library located in Solaris which will provide additional space for services and resources," said Graham Lee, President and CEO of RG Properties. "When completed Meadows Gate will be part of the city centre's master-planned community and will offer residents and visitors easy access to a vibrant neighbourhood with a new public library, retail shops and services, and courtyard."

Final drawings will likely be unveiled next year with occupancy to take place in 2011.

Caro O'Kennedy, Library Manager, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, was enthused by the announcement commenting that "with fresh new buildings comes opportunities for service options. The City and Fraser Valley Regional Library are committed to bringing the best possible service to Pitt Meadows. This partnership just builds upon the tremendous success this library has had. This is a positive situation for the City, the Developer, the Library and the Community. I know that we can play as positive a role in this community in the future as we have in the past twenty years. "

-30-

top

Pitt Meadows Library to Move

Related Topics