By Staff

Jan. 29, 2020: Have you noticed the bulldozer on the lawn of the Bronxville Library and wondered what's going on?

Here's your answer.

The Bronxville Library is installing a new HVAC system. The existing system is 19 years old and in disrepair.  In fact, according to Village Administrator, Jim Palmer, "the existing cooling system would not make it through another summer and barely cooled the Library last year."

According to Palmer, the firm OLA Consulting Engineers "completed an exhaustive review of the existing system and determined that replacement of the existing underground equipment (in the same location but in an expanded pit) was the most efficient approach and would further result in the least amount of noise and visual impact."

The new HVAC equipment is being installed below ground (like the existing system) and includes the installation of a new concrete foundation, chillers and associated plumbing and electrical work.

The first step is currently underway. According to Palmer, the construction firm "has cut an access panel into the south side of the Yeager room." The Yeager room is closed and being used "for storage and staging related to the HVAC work."

Palmer further noted that the total construction cost is $962,000 and "is being funded through a $250k State grant (thanks to Assemblywoman Paulin), use of Library Trust monies and the issuance of a bond for the remaining cost."

Bids went out last summer, and the Village awarded the project to the low bidder, Clean Air Quality Service Inc. last fall. Both OLA Consulting Engineers and Lothrop Associates, the Project Architect, are overseeing the work.

The estimated time for completing the project is June, 2020.