#230 177 Victoria Street P rince George, BC V2L 5R8 Tel. (250) 564-7285 F ax. (250) 564-7286 1100 Patricia Boulevard Prince George, BC V2L 3V9 PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRANCE REPORT
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.1 INTRODUCTION pg 2 1.2 OBJECTIVE pg 2 1.3 PROCESS pg 2 1.4 SELECTION OF PREFERRED OPTION pg 3 1.5 OPTIONS AND COMMENTS pg 4 1.6 ROTUNDA pg 5 1.7 NOTES FROM MORNING SESSION pg 5 1.8 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION pg 6 1.9 PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATES FOR THE THREE OPTIONS pg 7 APPENDIX A LIST OF SPORTIVE ORGRANIZATIONS pg 8 & 9 APPENDIX B DRAWINGS FROM WORKSHOP SESSION pg 10 Option 1 Cover Sheet pg 11 SK-3 Option 1 Site Plan pg 12 SK-4 Option 1 Main Floor Plan pg 13 Amended Option 1 Lower Level & Main Floor pg 14 Perspective Sketches pg 15 & 16 Option 2 Cover Sheet pg 17 SK-5 Option 2 Site Plan pg 17 SK-6 Option 2 Main Floor Plan pg 19 Perspective Sketches pg 20 & 21 Option 3 Cover Sheet pg 22 SK-7 Option 3 Site Plan pg 23 SK-8 Option 3 Main & Upper Floor Plan pg 24 Perspective Sketches pg 25 & 26 CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 1
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE 1.1 INTRODUCTION Chernoff Thompson Architects North were engaged by the City of Prince George to facilitate a design workshop to present options for the location of the new library entrance. It was intended that the workshop would address the key issues of accessibility, security and programming space. The workshop was held at the Prince George Library on August 13, 2015. In attendance were members of several organizations which had provided letters of support for the project. City of Prince George staff also attended. The format of the workshop included a morning session(10:00 am noon) inviting discussion and suggestions for the content and associated programming of the new space. During the afternoon session, three possible locations together with preliminary schematic designs were presented. Group discussion and individual comments were received for each option. The plans were mounted on the wall and the group was invited to vote for their preferred option by placing coloured dots on their first second and third choice. Following this process a preferred option was established. 1.2 OBJECTIVE To establish a clear understanding of the preferred location and scope of the desired services which best address library facilities concerns. 1.3 PROCESS The participants were divided into four groups of six persons and sat at separate tables. The question what should be included in the new library entrance was posed. Each group brainstormed the issue and compiled a flip chart list of their suggestions. There were no qualifications set for the task and participants were encouraged to freely associate all ideas. Each group had one member present their ideas to the entire room, and answered questions to clarify their suggestions. The flip charts were pinned to the wall after each group had presented. All the participants reviewed the posted information and established common themes and requirements which were distilled into a final list. All flip chart information was retained for the preparation of this report. CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 2
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE 1.4 SELECTION OF PREFERRED OPTION Prior to the start of the workshop, drawings were displayed on the walls to illustrate the three options which had been suggested by the City of Prince George and the staff of the Prince George Library. Chernoff Thompson Architects North had taken the schematic sketches provided and developed them into larger format drawings which were more readily understandable by the general public. The afternoon session consisted of a power point presentation of the drawings for each option and were augmented with an animated computerized walkthrough of each scheme. General questions and discussion was encouraged during this process. At the completion of the power point presentation and after further discussion participants were given three coloured dots which they could apply to the drawings to indicate their preferred option. A red dot would indicate a first choice and was attributed a value of 3 points. A green dot would indicate a second choice and was attributed a value of 2 points. A yellow dot would indicate a third choice and was attributed a value of 1 point. The following chart indicates the results of the voting and is reproduced from the flip chart as posted at the workshop. Value Option # 1 Option # 2 Option # 3 Red x 3 17 x 3 = 51 2 x 3 = 6 5 x 3 = 15 Green x 2 4 x 2 = 8 13 x 2 = 26 7 x 2 = 14 Yellow x 1 2 x 1 = 2 11 x 1 = 11 11 x 1 = 11 Total: 61 43 40 When the number of first choice options are viewed the preference is heavily weighted in favour of Option # 1 (17 first choice). Option # 3 garnered 5 first choice votes. Option # 2 garnered 2 first choice votes. When all options are evaluated using the points system. Option # 1 still achieves the first choice (61 points). Option # 2 achieves second choice (43 points). Option # 3 is third choice (40 points). We can determine that Option # 1 is the clear preferred choice. CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 3
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE 1.5 OPTIONS AND COMMENTS Note: for all options the existing parking level entrance and elevator will be closed to the public and will only be utilized by staff and as a service entry. The existing exterior staircase to the Plaza will be demolished. Option # 1 Plaza Entry: Pros Provides one main entry / exit which enhances security. Provides an integration with the Plaza area. Provides safe access from the parking level. Establishes a well defined main entrance. Encloses existing deck area which overlooks the Plaza. Cons Elevator only reaches the main floor. Does not allow for City Bus drop off at entry. Option # 2 Rotunda: Pros Cons Utilizes existing infrastructure. Too remote. Floor level could be dropped to level of library main floor. Long circuitous route from parking level to main floor of library. 2 nd level is not usable space. Does not present a recognizable main entrance. Option # 3 Dominion Street: Pros Cons Prominent traffic route. Access from Plaza has to be through parking level. Highly visible. Would require re-planning of main floor. Could provide elevator access to third level. Perceived as dangerous location for young children. Provide southerly aspect with view to Connaught Hill. No connection to the Plaza public space. CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 4
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE 1.6 ROTUNDA During wrap up discussions it was strongly suggested that regardless of the option chosen, that some work should be allocated to the rotunda structure. It was suggested that in its present form it does not present a productive link between the Civic Centre and the Library. Criticisms included; a floor level which is higher than the library and which required a ramp into the library space, and a staircase which interrupts the floor area. Remedies could include, relocating staircase outside of the rotunda, lowering floor level to match library floor, and removal of the ramp from the library space. It was felt that this would render a connective space more conducive to retail use, an art exhibition gallery or perhaps library program space. 1.7 NOTES FROM MORNING SESSION: What do we need to include in the new Library Entrance? The following comments are taken from the workshop flipcharts which were posted in response to the above question: Universal accessibility. Adequate parking. Sheltered bus stop near entrance. Map of Plaza and adjacent buildings. Warm, inviting and aesthetically pleasing. Spacious. Multi lingual signage. Safe and secure, well lit. Incorporate the knowledge garden with the main entrance. Consideration for future growth. Connection to the Plaza. Seating in foyer. Single public entrance and exit. Open sightlines. Welcoming, well defined and improved connectivity to the Plaza. Good signage. Entrance overlooking Plaza. Should have presence befitting an important building. Spacious vestibule. Design which compliments the main building Should feel directed towards new main entrance. CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 5
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE Security of materials. Elevator large enough to accommodate scooters and emergency personnel. Secure scooter and bike storage. Accessible parking. High visibility staircase. Well lit parking area. Natural and electronic surveillance. Lots of glass in foyer and stairwells. Ramp to be immediately adjacent to lower parking level entry. 1.8 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION Option # 1 the Plaza Entry location was considered by the majority of participants to be the preferred option. Generally it was felt that this presented the best opportunity to create a main entrance which not only compliments the existing building but makes an architectural statement that this is the main entrance. It was acknowledged that it would be desirable to allow for future development of the elevator to provide access to the third level similar to option 3 (currently option one indicates the elevator terminating at the main floor level). Included in the appendix is a modified Option # 1 which re-orientates the elevator as well as incorporating other recommendations from the workshop (ramp closer to entry, scooter storage, seating in vestibule). NOTE: Subsequent to the conclusion of the workshop, Library staff submitted a revised concept for a new entrance adjacent to the Rotunda. It has not been included here as it was not available for review by the workshop participants. NEXT STEPS: The next stage is to engage a consultant team to develop the design and to deliver the project through to the construction phase. It is recommended that a quantity surveyor (cost consultant) be part of the team to ensure that the project remains within the prescribed budget. CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 6
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE 1.9 PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATES FOR THE THREE OPTIONS Option Description of Key Improvement Elements Estimate New Integrated Stairwell & Elevator from Parking 1 Lot to Main Entrance with stop at plaza level North Side of the existing deck to be enclosed for café/new program space $3.9M Integrate New two-way Elevator into the Rotunda 2 from Parking Lot to East edge of Main Deck with stop at ground in Rotunda + new entrance to Knowledge Garden Eliminate existing entry ramp from Rotunda & lower 2 nd floor of Rotunda to Library Deck level with stairs/ramp to 2 nd floor of Civic Centre $1.5M Enclose approx. 50% of north side of library deck for café/new program space The main entrance off Dominion Street easier 3 Notes: access to pedestrian and transit facilities. Would consider a re-orientation of the Circulation Desk. Enclose approx. 75% of south side of library deck for café/new program space No changes to the existing Rotunda Entrance SIMILAR TO OPTION 1 All options eliminate the existing public entrance in the mid parking lot area All options designed to improve accessibility, security and programming space. CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 7
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE APPENDIX A LIST OF ORGANZATION INVOLVED CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 8
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE LIST OF SPORTIVE ORGANZATIONS: The following organizations offered letters of support for the Library Improvements project and were represented at the workshop: City of Prince George Advisory Committee on Accessibility City of Prince George Advisory Committee on Development Design City of Prince George Advisory Committee on Enhancing PG City of Prince George Heritage Commission City of Prince George Council School District 57 School District 57 Teacher Librarians Northern Archives of UNBC Child, Youth and Family Network PG & District Community Arts Council Prince George Native Friendship Centre Prince George Council of Seniors Friends of the Library Success by Six Prince George Public Library Board Tourism Prince George Prince George Literacy Advisory Committee Youth Around Prince George Two Rivers Gallery Le Cercle des Canadiens Francais de Prince George Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 9
CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE GEORGE LIBRARY NEW ENTRNACE APPENDIX B DRAWINGS FROM WORKSHOP SESSION CHERNOFF THOMPSON ARCHITECTS NORTH Page 10
OPTION 1
STAIR #2 ELEVATOR EQUIPMENT ROOM PATRICIA BOULEVARD 111 PARKING STALLS ELEVATOR ELEVATOR LOBBY BOOK STORAGE ACCESSIBLE STALLS 8 ENTRANCE LOBBY 8 29 BURM ELEV. LIBRARY COLD STORAGE OPEN FOYER TO ABOVE VESTIBULE LIBRARY ENTRANCE 8 LANDSCAPING KNOWLEDGE GARDEN EXISTING ROTUNDA OPTION 1 LOWER FLOOR LEVEL
STAIR 3 VESTIBULE DN STAIR 2 ELEVATORMEN'S WASHROOM WOMEN'S WASHROOM JAN. MULTI PURPOSE ROOM DRINKING FOUNTAIN STORAGE CIRCULATION WORK AREA MEETING ROOM STAIR 1 PUBLIC LOBBY DN 29 CHILDREN'S LIBRARY MAIN FLOOR FINISHED SLAB ELEV. 74.23m WR ELEV. OPEN FOYER TO BELOW OFFICES WOMEN'S WASHROOM MEN'S WASHROOM COFFEE SHOP / LOUNGE STAIR 4 RAMP LANDING DN ROTUNDA ELEV. OPTION 1 MAIN FLOOR LEVEL VOID DN VOID
MAIN FLOOR LEVEL AMENDED OPTION 1 LOWER FLOOR LEVEL
Option 1 Perspective Sketch from Plaza (North)
Option 1 Perspective Sketch from Plaza
OPTION 2
STAIR #2 ELEVATOR EQUIPMENT ROOM PATRICIA BOULEVARD 111 PARKING STALLS ELEVATOR ELEVATOR LOBBY BOOK STORAGE BURM 8 VESTIBULE 8 NEW RETAINING LANDSCAPING WALL ELEV. GRASS KNOWLEDGE GARDEN EXISTING ROTUNDA LIBRARY & CIVIC CENTRE ENTRANCE OPTION 2 LOWER FLOOR LEVEL
STAIR 3 VESTIBULE DN STAIR 2 ELEVATORMEN'S WASHROOM WOMEN'S WASHROOM JAN. MULTI PURPOSE ROOM DRINKING FOUNTAIN STORAGE CIRCULATION WORK AREA MEETING ROOM STAIR 1 PUBLIC LOBBY CHILDREN'S LIBRARY MAIN FLOOR FINISHED SLAB ELEV. 74.23m WR WOMEN'S WASHROOM MEN'S WASHROOM OFFICES CONCOURSE / PROGRAM SPACE STAIR 4 ELEV. DN ROTUNDA DN 5 RAMP OPTION 2 MAIN FLOOR LEVEL ELEV. VOID DN VOID
Option 2 Perspective Sketch from Plaza (North)
Option 2 Perspective Sketch from Plaza
OPTION 3
LIBRARY ENTRANCE VESTIBULE STAIR #2 ELEVATOR EQUIPMENT ROOM MAIN LOBBY ACCESSIBLE STALLS ELEVATOR ELEVATOR LOBBY BOOK STORAGE 20 PATRICIA / DOMINION BOULEVARD 8 ELEV. LOWER LOBBY 111 PARKING STALLS DROP OFF LANDSCAPING 8 RELOCATED BUS SHELTER GRASS LANDSCAPING KNOWLEDGE GARDEN EXISTING ROTUNDA OPTION 3 LOWER FLOOR LEVEL
STAIR 3 EMERGENCY / AMBULANCE USE ONLY ELEV. ENTRY ROOF BELOW STAIR 3 VESTIBULE DN STAIR 2 ELEVATORMEN'S WASHROOM WOMEN'S WASHROOM JAN. DN 20 MULTI PURPOSE ROOM DRINKING FOUNTAIN ELEV. ROOM ELEV. STORAGE CIRCULATION WORK AREA MEETING ROOM NEW PROGRAM / SOCIAL SPACE STAIR 1 PUBLIC LOBBY CHILDREN'S LIBRARY MAIN FLOOR FINISHED SLAB ELEV. 74.23m VESTIBULE WR WOMEN'S WASHROOM MEN'S WASHROOM ADDITIONAL SPACE? OFFICES STAIR 4 OPTION 3 MAIN & PARTIAL PER FLOOR LEVEL LANDING RAMP LANDING DN
Option 3 Perspective Sketch from Dominion St / Connaught Hill
Option 3 Perspective Sketch from Dominion St