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Architects present downtown library assessment; board approves AIA contract for detailed feasibility work
Summary
SAP Design Architects presented an initial assessment of the downtown main branch library, including building condition, ADA and code issues, historic status and the possibility of state historic tax credits. The board approved an AIA B101–2017 agreement for the assessment and feasibility study.
SAP Design Architects presented an initial assessment of the downtown Kansas City, Kansas public library main branch at the Aug. 26 board meeting, outlining building condition, code and accessibility issues, and the potential to use state historic tax credits to offset rehabilitation costs.
Why this matters: The main branch is a contributing resource in the downtown historic district; state historic tax credits can cover 40% of qualified rehabilitation expenses (QREs) for eligible projects, and designers said that could materially alter project feasibility if the board chooses rehabilitation over replacement.
Key findings from the consultants: Brad McKenzie of SAP Design Architects said the building’s overall physical condition is “actually really good” for structure, HVAC and electrical, but that the envelope insulation, window frames and some interior elements do not meet current energy and accessibility codes. The building needs a fire suppression system, some stair/railing updates and upgrades to restroom accessibility and door hardware, the presentation said. Steve Potter summarized community engagement and demographic findings; Kristen McSparren of Heritage Consulting Services described the Kansas state historic tax credit program, noting state credits are worth 40% of qualified rehabilitation expenses and are transferable certificates that can be sold because governmental entities do not have income tax liability.
Consultants said the building is a contributing resource in the Downtown Kansas City Historic District and is listed in the Kansas Register of Historic Places; the district is in process for nomination to the National Register. SAP Design said the project would require Parts 1–3 of the SHPO application if the board seeks state credits, with Part 2 needing preliminary design documents for review. Consultants cautioned that review by the local Landmarks Commission and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is part of the process and that certain changes to historic fabric may require negotiation with reviewers.
Board action: The board approved an AIA B101–2017 agreement with SAP Design Architects for structural assessment and a feasibility study related to the main library; the roll call recorded the motion as carried. The board gave unanimous approval on the agreement during the meeting's consent/action sequence.
Community input and next steps: Consultants reported 701 public questionnaire responses (33 in Spanish) and stakeholder engagement sessions. SAP Design said it will return about a month later with refined options, cost estimates and a clearer explanation of how historic-tax-credit scenarios affect budgets. Consultants said some options would take advantage of credits and others would not; the board discussed timing for next presentations and asked staff to provide cost-cap guidance for decision-making.
Ending: The board’s approval of the SAP agreement authorizes a deeper feasibility study and sets the next public update for late September; if the board elects to pursue tax credits later in the process, the SHPO review timeline and landmark-process steps will factor into the schedule.
