Here to Stay – Repairs Planned for Port Credit Library

A plan to repair the foundation of the Port Credit Library was approved in principle at today’s General Committee meeting. This will enable the library to reopen in the same location once the work to rehabilitate the building is completed.

“Over the past several months, I have been working extensively to ensure that Ward 1 is able to have a library in the Port Credit community. I am so pleased it will be able to stay in its present place – it’s a popular location that means so much to library customers and the Port Credit neighbourhood,” said Stephen Dasko, Councillor, Ward 1. “Thank you to everyone for your patience as staff, Council and I worked to develop a viable, long-term plan for the library.”

The building has been closed to the public since June 28, 2021. The library and Port Credit Memorial Park are built on landfill that over time has impacted the stability of the building’s foundation and supports.

Since that time, City staff researched and reviewed several options that include:

• building a new library at the same location
• relocating to another location in the Lakeshore area
• maintaining the existing 8,200 sq. ft. library by repairing the existing concrete foundation

The report recommended that the City proceed with the repair option and keep the building in its current location at a cost of approximately $6 to $8 million.

The repair work involves a process the City first tested in 2016 as a pilot project, whereby helical piles (steel pipes) were installed onto three piers to stabilize the foundation. This was found to be an effective long-term solution and will be used to repair the entire foundation.

The foundation repair is expected to extend the building’s life for another 50 years.

“Rehabilitating the foundation is a benefit for everyone. It is the most cost-effective solution, it allows the library to stay in the neighbourhood and it extends the life of the building for many years to come,” said Shari Lichterman, Commissioner, Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer.

The construction timeline is approximately 20 to 24 months, with the library expected to reopen in late 2023 or early 2024.

The recommendation to repair the Port Credit Library foundation will be before Council for final approval on February 16.

“The Port Credit Memorial Arena Pop Up Library will continue to serve the community as the library building undergoes rehabilitation,” said Jodi Robillos, Commissioner, Community Services. “Customers can also access any of our other 17 locations or our wide range of ebooks, audiobooks and other online services.”

Visit: Port Credit Library web page

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• Arts and Culture
• Libraries