New central library construction schedule on track
Posted Jun 20, 2022 05:30:47 PM.
The construction of the new central library is well underway and back on track.
Ottawa's new public library and Archives Canada joint facility is being named Ādisōke, which is an Anishinabemowin word that refers to the telling of stories.
Construction on the site is back on after a few weeks of setbacks due to labour strikes in the construction industry.
“This is a significant milestone, the foundation is being laid for the new library,” said Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson. “It's a very exciting project for the city of Ottawa . If you look at other cities around the world, libraries are becoming iconic buildings and are not just old fashioned libraries, but places to gather, to meet and to act.”
Mayor Watson and several other dignitaries took part in a smudging ceremony at the new library site on June 20, where they placed several items in the foundation, including a library card and a small shovel.
“I am very pleased with the progress,” added Mayor Watson. “This is symbolic that we are leaving gifts for future generations to discover.”
The price tag for Ādisōke is unchanged, according to Mayor Watson.
“So far so good,” he added.
The timeline, according, Matthew Luloff, city councillor for Orléans and chair of the Ottawa Public Library Board, is also on target.
“Construction is going great,” he added. “The small hold up we had with the strike did not affect the project schedule so we are pleased to see it moving along.”
Doors are expected to open in 2026.
