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Board approves schematic design and a $460,425 design contract for Penn Lake Library renovation
Summary
Hennepin County approved schematic approval and a contract with Rohr Schmidt Architect LLC for architectural and engineering services for the Penn Lake Library refurbishment, including a 15-month closure during construction and investments in envelope, mechanical systems and site stormwater management.
Hennepin County commissioners approved schematic design and authorized a contract with Rohr Schmidt Architect LLC for architectural and engineering services for the Penn Lake Library renovation in Bloomington. Facility Services staff described the 1969 building (about 15,000 gross square feet on a 2.17-acre site) as showing age-related deterioration in its envelope, steel windows, roofing and some interior systems. The project scope described to commissioners includes a roof replacement (requiring redesign to improve drainage and meet current R-value code), replacement of original steel windows and doors with insulated aluminum, repairs to brick and mortar, upgraded mechanical and lighting systems where needed, interior reconfiguration to improve sight lines and daylighting, larger accessible restrooms, updated service desk, and updates to site amenities including the parking area, sidewalks, planters and a play area.
Staff said the renovation will include stormwater management strategies to address on-site infiltration and drainage and will attempt to protect mature oak trees on the hilly site. The project team recommended preserving character-defining features of the building while updating finishes and furniture; the plan calls for a construction closure of roughly 15 months, with construction anticipated in 2026 and substantial completion expected in fall 2027. Commissioners asked about energy measures and temporary service/hold pickup plans during closure; staff responded that recent mechanical replacements mean much of the equipment will remain but that an air-source heat pump will be installed to serve the multipurpose room and that temporary service location plans are under discussion.
Motion and outcome: The board moved and passed the schematic approval and the contract (09/29/2025–09/15/2028; not to exceed $460,425) for design services. The board also discussed sustainability considerations and asked staff to return with more details about energy-related measures and plans to serve patrons during construction.
