Groundbreaking Municipal

Colantonio Celebrates Jamaica Plain Branch Library Groundbreaking

1shovel scene

(l-r) Francis Colantonio, CEO, Colantonio, Inc.; John Hailer, interim chair of the BPL Board; Matthew O’Malley, city councilor; Boston Mayor Martin Walsh; Michael Flaherty, Boston City Councilor-at-Large; Don Haber, co-chairman of the Friends of the JP Branch Library; David Leonard, interim president of the BPL; and State Rep. Liz Malia

Jamaica Plain, MA – Holliston-based Colantonio Inc. recently joined the city of Boston and local officials; Boston Public Library trustees; and Jamaica Plain residents at the Jamaica Plain Branch Library to kick off its long-awaited renovation. Colantonio is the general contractor for the $10 million project.

The architect is Utile Architecture and Planning of Boston.

The Jamaica Plain community has been working for 12 years to make this project a reality. Built in 1911 on the corner of South and Sedgwick streets, the 9,500sf building had its last renovation in 1936.

Library rendering

Library rendering

The renovation will add 2,800sf of space that will provide a new reading terrace; separate areas for teens, t’weens, and children; community meeting spaces; workrooms; maker space; and a new main entry to the building.

Upgrades include full accessibility on all levels and new restrooms, mechanical systems, finishes, and exterior landscaping.

Technology improvements include new computers, free Wi-Fi, self-checkout stations, and a 3D printer with a creative suite of software.

The project will be completed by the summer of 2017.