Rochester Public Library roof replacement project set to begin

(ABC 6 News) – The Rochester Public Library (RPL) will see repairs and replacement to the building roof in the coming weeks.

The project is expected to start on August 15 and last approximately two months.

The RPL facility was built in 1995. The existing roof is the original roof with minor repairs over time. The library’s roof is beyond its useful life requiring replacement and additional related repairs. Roof replacement will contribute to the energy efficiency of the building.

The total cost of the project is expected to be approximately $1.3 million dollars and is being supported via American Rescue Act Plan (ARPA) allocations.

The crane and staging area will be in front of RPL on 2nd St. SE. Due to the location, there will not be parking in the front of the building. However, the sidewalk and library entrance will be accessible. The Civic Center Ramp, which connect to RPL will not be impacted. There will be two lanes eastbound and one lane westbound open on 2nd Street SE.

RPL Director Karen Lemke shares, “We’re grateful for this important work to begin, knowing it will protect one of the city’s most-visited assets. While there may be noise impacts, we anticipate the library will remain open for the duration of the project."

Merritt Contracting was the selected provider after a bid process occurred and the bid was approved by the City Council.

Updates about the repairs and roof replacement will be shared via the library’s website at www.rplmn.org.