Our Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

SITUATION:

Providence Public Library (PPL) selected BOND Building as construction manager for the state’s largest-ever public library renovation. The $29 million project transformed the Library’s 1950s wing, auditorium, and special collection areas to provide 21st-century library services for Providence and Rhode Island residents. The 83,000-square foot renovation addresses required life safety systems upgrades and made major infrastructure improvements to PPL’s downtown buildings (150 Empire Street). The project was completed in September 2020.

CHALLENGES:

  • Maintain an aggressive schedule to deliver projects on time
  • Minimize disruption to an active library during construction
  • Manage logistical challenges of a tight site in a busy area of the city
  • Significant structural modifications to create a new atrium as well as upgrades to the building’s mechanical systems

SOLUTIONS:

  • Utilized laser scanning technology to accurately confirm existing conditions and provide a level of certainty regarding MEP modifications
  • Devised detail mitigation plans and protocols to ensure safe conditions
  • Multi-phased approach allowed renovations to be constructed without disrupting library activities
  • Worked with PPL and design team to develop a detailed schedule for preconstruction & construction to prepare the building for modifications
  • Implemented Lean construction practices that minimized disturbances to pedestrian and vehicular traffic by activating “Just-In-Time” delivery strategies to get materials to the project when they were needed

RESULTS:

  • Delivered a modern, open, public learning space and creative center in the heart of the city
  • New space is warm and engaging with new pedestrian flow and a new multi-story atrium
  • Delivered PPL’s strategic vision for the Library – a hub of education, innovation, and personal development for the City of Providence and surrounding areas