Title
Burton Barr Central Library Fire Suppression Project Completion - District 7
Description
This report provides an update on the Burton Barr Central Library Fire Suppression Project Completion.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY.
Report
Summary
The fire suppression project addressed the required work on floors one through four of Burton Barr Central Library. Analysis determined that the scope of work required expansion to include the removal and reinstallation of the specialty metal ceiling tiles, the reinstallation of the library’s lighting system, the provision of fire-watch services throughout the construction period, and the relocation of books and materials necessary to ensure uninterrupted library operations. Each task required a separate vendor. In May 2024, staff submitted a request to City Council for approval to increase Hiller’s master agreement to $10 million and revise the estimated project cost to $5 million.
The City initially anticipated awarding Hiller the contract to replace the fire suppression system in early April 2025. During the evaluation of project requirements, it was determined that the expanded scope of work exceeded Hiller’s operational capacity. Brycon Construction was therefore selected as the general contractor to administer and oversee the full scope of work beginning in April 2025.
The revised construction plan identified costs of $1,947,606 for the fourth floor and $5,352,841 for floors one through three, for a total project cost of $7,300,447. Construction began in May 2025 and concluded in October 2026.
Completion of the fire suppression system replacement, along with associated life-safety upgrades, will position Burton Barr Central Library to remain in full compliance with applicable safety standards for an estimated 15 to 20 years. Routine maintenance will continue as needed, and ongoing maintenance and repair costs are expected to remain minimal.
Future Life Safety Projects
Future life-safety improvements include installing a replacement fire pump by February 2027, fire alarm system upgrades to begin after completion of the fire suppression project and smoke-control system enhancements anticipated to commence in February 2027, pending final review and permitting.
Location
City Council District 7
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Gina Montes and the Library Department.