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Glendora council reviews repair, expansion and a $10 million canopy proposal for aging library
Summary
City staff presented structural and waterproofing reports showing recurring water intrusion at Bidwell Plaza and a $3.2 million targeted structural construction estimate; council and residents debated repair‑only, modernization, or replacement and weighed a concept that could cost about $10 million.
The Glendora City Council on Wednesday heard staff and consultant updates on the Glendora Public Library's long‑standing structural and waterproofing problems and considered options ranging from targeted repairs to a comprehensive modernization or replacement.
Assistant City Manager and interim Public Works Director Moises Lopez summarized engineering work dating from the 1980s through MHP's 2026 update, saying the most recent engineering "recommends addressing both the waterproofing in the near term coordinated with the structural repair work." Lopez said the targeted structural strengthening and plaza waterproofing construction was estimated at about $3,200,000 while noting that "that also does not include any soft cost or any additional EOC strengthening." He added staff recommends carrying a larger overall project allowance "roughly between 4 and $4,500,000" to account for design and other soft costs.
Contractor Michael Matthews, who has been working with the library advocates, told the council a canopy or patio cover concept could substantially reduce water intrusion and also produce new usable community space, but cautioned further design and structural analysis would be required. "We can waterproof this. We can probably give you a 10 year warranty," Matthews said, and added his integrated canopy concept could be in the roughly $10,000,000 range depending on structural fixes and final scope.
Residents and library advocates urged preserving and modernizing the library for its social and educational role. Marilyn Sparks, president of the Glendora Public Library Friends Foundation, said the library is a community hub and "provides after school and summer programs that keep children and teens in constructive environments," emphasizing social as well as economic value.
Councilmembers sought options that balance longevity and cost. Several members said they preferred thoroughly fixing the structural and waterproofing problems while exploring how much modernization the community would support, and requested refined cost scenarios that include waterproofing, EOC upgrades, and potential patio structure alternatives. Staff said it would return with additional analysis and updated estimates as part of the next workshop focused on funding.
