The Arlington County Board approved plans to construct a new Westover County Library, attached to Reed School with new wings for daycare and a preschool.
The projecthas been some nine years in the making. Originally, the county and schools began separate plans to replace their facilities on nearly 11 acres in the Westover neighborhood. Playgrounds and sports fields separate the Reed School, built in 1938, and the 44-year-old Westover Library. Neighbors urged the county to combine the projects and save money, the Reed School and the open space around the buildings.
The $19.9 million project approved Saturday preserves Reed School. Most of it will be turned into a high-ceilinged reading room in the new library, while the floor above will house a teen parenting program.
New wings attached to the old building will house a schools’ employee daycare and a special needs preschool. The project also includes 71 parking spaces, 30 bike racks, and improvements to the existing playgrounds.
Most of the project, $14.9 million, is in the schools’ capital budget. It remains under budget, County Manager Ron Carlee said Saturday. Neighbors had only two complaints: the project’s energy efficiency rating and the siding proposed for the new wings.
The proposed siding has not weathered well on other buildings, County Board members agreed. They also questioned the architect about the insulation and window glazing. Thicker insulation and glazing could reduce the loss of heat and air conditioning.
Schools officials agreed to study the cost-effectiveness of changing the siding, insulation and glazing before building permits are issued. Construction is expected to begin in January.
