Allen Library Expansion to be decided during Bond Election

During the City’s bond election on May 7, voters will decide whether to approve a $16 million expansion of Allen Public Library. If approved, the project could add up to 45,000 square feet and 260 additional parking spaces.

Advertisement.

The expansion would feature a children’s play area, business center, study/quiet areas and more meeting rooms. It would also add space for programs, collections, displays and technology resources.

The current library facility, located at 300 N. Allen Drive, was built in 2005 with the intent to expand for future needs. The expansion would allow Allen to keep its library facilities under one roof instead of building multiple branches as the city reaches its build-out population. A single facility generates fewer operating and maintenance costs, offering a more affordable solution than building additional library branches.

The library expansion plan is the result of a massive community effort to identify potential projects for the 2016 bond program. More than a hundred residents participated in meetings and facility tours in late 2015, guided by a citizen-led steering committee. City staff members were on hand to answer questions and offer expertise, but final project recommendations were left up to residents.

The library expansion will be listed as Proposition 3 on the May 7 ballot. Early voting runs April 25 through May 3. The bond election also includes separate propositions for public safety, parks and recreation, streets and drainage, and public art.

Collin Image Team
Collin County news and updates by www.collinimage.com