Join us for the second public meeting regarding the Hugh Smith / East Branch Library Project, at Hugh Smith Recreation Center, on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2014, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

The Arlington Parks and Recreation Department and Arlington Public Library are proposing to complete a programmatic assessment for replacing the Hugh Smith Recreation Center and possibly co-locating recreation programming with the services provided by the East Arlington Branch Library. Work will also include an evaluation of alternatives for senior services.

The study process will include a series of advisory committee and public input meetings which will began on July 30, 2013. A citizen committee has been selected to review and make recommendations relative to the future of Hugh Smith Recreation Center located at 1815 New York Avenue and the East Branch Library at 1624 New York Avenue.

The Arlington City Council approved an architectural agreement with Dewberry Architects, Inc. in June 2013. The contract specifically includes, but is not limited to:

1) Physical assessment of the Hugh Smith Recreation Center and Indoor Pool.

2) Program and space assessments for the recreation center, senior adult center and East Arlington Branch Library.

3) Analysis of site alternatives.

4) Development of three options:

· Integrated recreation and senior center at the same location / library expansion.

· Integrated recreation and senior centers at an alternate location / library expansion.

· Integrated recreation and library services at a new location.

5) Cost estimation.

Park bond funding was authorized for this assessment in 2008. Library bond funding was also authorized for expansion of the East Arlington Branch Library in 2008. This project was also identified in the City's FY 2013 Business Plan. The project has an authorized budget of $120,000.

This study will conclude with a presentation to the Mayor and Council in early 2014. For more information, contact[email protected] or call 817-459-5499!