Great Neck Library Landscaping Committee Wednesday, January 18, 2017, 7:30pm Main Library Board Members: Robert Schaufeld, Chair (RS) Marietta DiCamillo (MD) Josie Pizer (absent) JP Francine Ferrante Krupski (FFK) Public Members: Architecture (GM) Alice Merwin (AM) Marianna Wohlgemuth (MW) Library Professionals: Kathy Giotsas, Executive Director (KG) Tracy Geiser (absent with notice) (TG) Charles Wohlgemuth (CW) Guest: Greg Marett, Bayview Landscape RS called the regular meeting of the Great Neck Library s Landscape Committee to order at 7:30pm at the Main Library. Greg Marett took the floor to move through the landscaping plan. GM explained that at the last meeting, the board for the Plaza was reviewed. Tonight, the Front Entry and the Garden Parking areas need to be worked through. Front Entry GM started with the speed table. MD suggested extending the divider to meet the oval island to create a tennis racket look to prevent cars from crossing. A break would need to be added for handicap access, as well as at the curb. MD expressed concern for the pavers at the raised area with snow removal. CW explained that he will have the snow removal contractor come in to see what the layout is and add markers for when it does snow. CW cautioned that prior to the installation of the enhanced entry, Nassau needs to come in and install the motion detector monitor in the entry. CW agreed to make contact with Nassau to get the details. MD questioned the raised walkway ending in a green island. GM posed that the island could be removed or firm paths could be added with pavers that mirror the ramp. GM was asked to proceed with adding the firm paths. Page 1 of 7
MW noted that keeping the traffic moving is a major problem. MD commented that the fire lane needs to be painted to eliminate the cones. GM noted that the fire lane will be painted on each side of the raised area. MD asked that once painted, do not park signs need to be added. This will allow the Library to tow cars if needed. KG shared that a company could be put on notice for a limited time to tow violators. Further, if a child is left in the car, the police should be called. MD cautioned that the area must be clearly signed and marked. Regarding site furnishings, GM noted that the committee was looking for a theme and brand for the furnishings for the site. Two materials are the recommended bamboo or recycled plastic with galvanized metal trim. There are benches in the Rain Garden and the waiting area. The goal is for a common thread throughout the whole site. MD noted that her preference would be the recycled plastic, which allows color to be added. The plastic is more durable than the bamboo. No sharp corners are to be part of the plan. GM noted the plastic can be power washed. It is also more expensive, but provides longevity. MD stressed the need for a completed plan for February meeting. GM passed around brochures from ANOVA Beacon Hill collection for the committee to see the styles of benches that would be potentially chosen. GM asked if the drop box was still in the plan. RS noted that it would be best placed at the top of the steps to the left of the front doors. The books need to come in through the front to make use of the RFID system. MW shared that the drop slot, prior to closing, was open from 9pm to 9am, when Main was closed. After lengthy discussion, MD asked KG to check with the insurance company to see if the drop box could be placed close to the building. KG agreed. Page 2 of 7
GM moved to the Great Neck Library signage to be placed in front of the handicap ramp in the plantings. It would appear to be floating. CW cautioned that there is a tree that is dedicated and must remain. MD asked that no trees be removed. GM noted that the sign would be individual letters. They could be galvanized steel or COR-TEN steel and a color similar to the existing handrail. The letters will be mounted on posts and back lit. The letters will be about 2 feet tall. GM noted that there will be plantings between the bridge handicap ramp--and the building. MW addressed the area to the right of the front entrance. GM noted that it is an opportunity to pull in a major donor. MD commented that a concept is required. If the Library cannot secure a sponsor, it will be done. A literary theme would be appropriate. KG shared that at the American Libraries Conference, there was a vendor selling statues of children reading. The area could be developed with plantings and a statue. GM shared that this could be a location for the Supertree. MD commented that instead of real horticulture, the Library could use the Supertree with colorful plants and add statues. It would be totally different. The statues could be children s characters under the tree. RS suggested using the READ sign and converting it into a fountain in the area. Rain Garden GM noted that the layout contains pools for water to gather in and the water would run off under the walkway into the pond. CW cautioned not to get too close to the building. GM agreed. Page 3 of 7
The Levels sign will remain at Bayview. It is earmarked as a location for donor opportunity. With 12 x12 tiles on the sign, there is potential for 30 donors. The tiles could vary in size and be removable to allow them to be changed year after year. GM noted that the master plan will have the quantity and variety of plants that will be included. AM suggested that local artists be asked to donate sculptures. MD expressed concern for theft. Garden Parking GM shared that the area close to the parking lot, leading to the garage will have grass and a gate pulled back. The committee asked to have the gate moved closer to the entry. GM agreed. After lengthy discussion, MD asked to leave the pavers in place, build in plantings, and move up the gate. Concern was expressed for the swing of the gate. MD asked to have it done in 2 parts for easier opening. RS noted that there needs to be space on the side for pedestrians to enter. GM moved to the amphitheater seating. The area will be an extension of the plaza. It will be synthetic with a crushed gravel floor. MD noted that the Water Department has given the go ahead to landscape front line work only. CW noted that if the location of the dumpster becomes an issue, the Library should have an alternate location selected. KG noted that it would be way back in the far right hand corner. GM noted that the planters will have the color theme. They will be elevated 12-18 and signed for the plants and questions to spark interest. The planters will be low maintenance. GM inquired about the budget. MD noted that the Library has planned $1.1M for the project. For maintenance, the Library will have to fund raise or build it into the budget. Maintenance should run about $100K to $200K annually. GM noted that perennials will be used. The grass will need minimal mowing, maybe 3 times a year. Page 4 of 7
MD noted that some of the flowers will need to be replaced. Eventually, bulbs die. CW asked GM to suggest a company for maintenance. GM agreed. Redesign of the Plaza GM noted that a new overlook was designed. It will be about 30 feet in diameter and composed of decking material. A Supertree will be placed in the center. Tables and chairs will be fixed to the decking. The stairs will also be of the same decking material, with a 14 tread to allow for additional seating. There will be railings on the steps and lighting. The enhanced paving will provide a space for performances, with seating on the overlook and stairs. RS noted that there is great opportunity for outdoor concerts. MD cautioned for timing of performances with neighbors close by. There will be no barbeques on the grounds of the Library. It is illegal to have the barbeques on the grounds. From the overlook, there will be ramp, also composed of decking, as well as the walkway through the Children s Garden. The Children s Garden will have raised planters with colorful plantings. The play area will have integrated play structures for the children to play with, not on. MD brought up FFK s idea for a book theme for the garden. FFK noted that Alice in Wonderland, Winnie the Pooh, and Dr. Seuss are all options to include. MD asked GM to add matting under the decking to prevent weeds. AM suggested adding a butterfly garden. MD shared that in the Children s Room there are 3 beta fish that the children are enamored by. The librarians should be asked to brainstorm and come up with ideas for an integrated garden. The Library needs to use the creativity it has and ask for input. Page 5 of 7
MW noted that around the building there is a small area where there is no green outside of Children s. The pavers end and there is dirt. GM assured the committee that there will be plantings no dead areas. For the play area, GM will come back with ideas. GM explained that the perimeter trees will be lit and the S shaped bench will also be lit. KG expressed concern for having enough light with the Levels kids using the space. GM agreed to enhance the lighting. Perimeter lighting could be added, mounted about 36 up all through the Levels and Children s areas. MD asked for a February meeting to be scheduled, with RS remaining as chair. Timing is important not to miss the season. MD asked to have Holy Coscetta canvas the BOT for availability for the week of February 13 th. GM asked if he should bring in a lighting specialist. MD agreed that an expert is needed to advise him on lighting. A plan should be provided. The contract may need to be altered to cover lighting. CW cautioned that the Town may need to approve the lighting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:40pm. Submitted by Jamie Eckartz Page 6 of 7
Great Neck Library Landscaping Committee Wednesday, January 18, 2017, 7:30pm Main Library Action Items and Recommendations Action Items: Kathy Giotsas 1. Check with the insurance company to see if the drop box could be placed close to the building. Charlie Wohlgemuth 1. Contact with Nassau to get the details on the motion detector monitor that need to be installed in the entry. Lighting Consultant Page 7 of 7