FEMA to pay around $26 million for new library

FEMA says it will pay approximately $26 million total for a new public library. The library board estimates the entire project will cost about $45 million.   The $26 million covers demolition costs and the construction of a new building.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency reports it will pay up to $3,795,000 to cover the cost of demolition, site preparation , land purchase to build a new public library with parking and  forty additional surface parking spots.  FEMA will put an estimated $22 million toward the construction of the new building itself. This dollar amount is based on replacing the flood damaged library building.

FEMA will pay this maximum dollar amount regardless of which site the city council selects at its Wednesday night meeting. FEMA also reports that the Emerald Knights location is the most cost-effective option. However, the council can choose from any of the three options: Emerald Knights, The Gazette/KCRG-TV9 Block or the TrueNorth site.

Cost Effectiveness Analysis Letter

Correspondence to Council 2-24-2010