Glendale architects report steady progress on downtown campus; gazebo design refined and library entry to close for ~8 weeks

City architect Eddie Garcia told the Glendale City Council on Dec. 9 that the downtown campus project is progressing and that much of the exterior ‘skin’ and glazing work will be complete by year end. Garcia presented updated aerial photos and interior finish progress across floors, described amphitheater bench framing under way and previewed the proposed gazebo design for Murphy Park.

Design details and intended uses: Garcia described a simplified, steel gazebo with a perforated metal roof and an open oculus at the crown, supported by cylindrical columns and a raised platform (roughly 18 inches above grade). The structure is sized for three modes of use — musical ensemble (30–40 people on the lawn), proclamation or oratory events, and small ceremonial uses such as weddings — and includes a single stair entrance and an adjacent accessible ramp. Staff proposed a reduction in the existing 36-inch guardrail height to about 30 inches and discussed decorative options such as ornamental corner irons and lattice-style lower panels raised by council members.

Library access and schedule: Garcia said demolition around the park is nearly finished but that starting Jan. 5 the sidewalk and new entry sequence for Veil Teague Library will require the library to close for approximately eight weeks (target reopening around March 2) to allow exterior hardscape work and HVAC repairs. Staff said the closure timing was chosen to minimize disruption and to take advantage of the offseason for HVAC work.

Council feedback and consensus: Council members offered design suggestions (color options, additional screening for rooftop mechanical equipment, decorative ironwork, and consideration of painting equipment to reduce visual contrast). Staff reported they will explore denser screening profiles where feasible without affecting mechanical airflow or roof weight. Council members expressed general support and staff said they understood there was consensus on the gazebo direction, with minor design refinements to follow.

Ending: Staff will continue monthly updates and move forward on remaining skin, hardware and interior punch-list items; furniture deliveries are scheduled to begin in early January and staff will return with refined design options and any cost implications to the council as needed.