We hope you’re your new year is off to a great start.
New Library Project Update
In December, the City of Larkspur selected Alten Construction with Noll & Tam (ACI team) to design and build the new Larkspur Library at The Commons.
City staff is working with the ACI team to incorporate desired elements into the new design. The team will present a schematic design to City Manager Dan Schwarz and Julian Skinner, Larkspur Public Works Director. This design will be shared with stakeholders for feedback before the plans progress to the next phase, Design Development.
Design Development plans will be available for public review and comment as part of the City Planning Commission’s approval process. These documents will be shared in advance of the meeting to allow sufficient time for feedback and consideration. The design is expected to go before the Planning Commission in June/July 2024.
Following the Planning Commission review, the team will finalize design details and prepare construction drawings for a building permit. This process is expected to take up to five months, leading to a construction start date of the new library in late 2024 or early 2025. Construction is anticipated to take up to 12 months.
In the meantime, on-site preparation of The Commons parcel is set to begin by April 2024 for improvements funded by the $1M Levine infrastructure grant. This includes grading, utilities, and a parking lot.
This will be a very exciting year for all our new library supporters and everyone eager to see a new library at The Commons.
Donor Highlight: Bill & Marian Howard
TCF recently asked library campaign supporters Bill and Marian Howard about their connection to Larkspur and the importance of a new modern library at The Commons.
TCF: You have lived in Larkspur for many years. What are the Larkspur’s attributes that have kept you local for decades?
Bill & Marian: We have traveled around the world and Larkspur is one of the most beautiful places to which we love to come home.
TCF: What is it for you, and your family, in the new Library that makes you excited for Larkspur?
Bill & Marian: Some people believe that libraries are passé. To the contrary, libraries are more important than ever as a service to the community.
TCF: What is your favorite book read over the last year?
Bill & Marian: Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game by Michael Lewis.
Making a Difference with a Memorial Gift and Estate Gifts
If you are passionate about supporting vital community resources like our new public library and wish to honor someone who has passed with a Memorial Gift, please consider The Commons Foundation.
Likewise, if you would like to continue to support the new library beyond your lifetime, please consider making a gift to TCF in your estate plans through your will or trust. Kindly contact us at admin@thecommonsatlarkspur.org if you would like additional information. Thank you.
TCF – The Year Ahead
In 2024, TCF will concentrate its fundraising on developing an appealing, sustainable landscape for the new library site. This will include outdoor meeting and seating areas. Your contribution will directly help create a vibrant, sustainable outdoor space, fostering a welcoming environment for all.
There are several ways to donate to TCF, including:
- Clicking the ‘Donate Now’ button above. This will take you to our donation page on our website.
- Submitting a PayPal payment or making a one-time gift with your credit card online (without signing into PayPal). Both can be performed on our website.
- Writing a check and mailing it to The Commons Foundation, Post Office Box 846, Larkspur, CA 94977
- Donating through your Donor Advised Fund
Please contact admin@thecommonsatlarkspur.org with any questions. Donations are tax-deductible and you will receive a gift acknowledgement by mail for tax purposes.
Thank you in advance for your support for this vital community asset.
Sincerely,
Ann Morrison
President, The Commons Foundation