NEWS RELEASE
Architectural Design Services Selection for HRM Central Library Moves Ahead
(Tuesday, January 19, 2010) - Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) announced today the engagement of Creative Class Group, who will provide expert advice to the selection committee as they review proposals to choose an architectural design firm for the Central Library.
Creative Class Group was founded by Richard Florida, one of the world’s leading experts on economic competitiveness, demographic trends and cultural and technological innovation. Mr. Florida was in Halifax in 2004 to help HRM articulate its vision of enhancing its image as a creative city. While in Halifax, Mr. Florida inspired residents and HRM Regional Council to imagine the best that downtown Halifax can be. The involvement of his Creative Class Group in the Central Library project brings us one step closer to realizing that better Halifax.
Creative Class Group incorporates two disciplines — urban planning and architecture. They will work with the selection committee, made up of HRM and Halifax Public Libraries staff, providing a written report on how each of the proposals relates to sound urban design and architectural principles. Their advice will be used to inform the work of the selection committee in determining which of the proponents best addresses the requirements outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP).“We are looking to passionate leaders in the field of good urban design to help us apply best practices and foresight as we move forward,” said Phillip Townsend, HRM’s Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management.
“Building a central library is a significant undertaking,” said Townsend. “Public input has guided the project from the beginning because this facility will not only be a beautiful building, it will contribute to the vitality of our downtown and serve as a cultural magnet and community gathering place for the residents of HRM.”
An Economic Impact Assessment Study of the Central Library done in 2009 shows the library will build a strong urban core, provide economic infrastructure for developing HRM’s creative economy and revitalize the business district where it is located.
In the coming weeks, the selection committee will review the proposals from the four architectural design firms and make a recommendation to Halifax Regional Council. Once the contract for architectural design services has been awarded, an in-depth public consultation and architectural design development process will begin.
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Contact:
Katherine VanBuskirk
HRM Corporate Communications
490-6697
Marlo MacKay
Halifax Public Libraries
490-5852
For information about Creative Class Group, contact:
Steven Pedigo
Head of Research and Communications,
(617)785-0807
www.creativeclass.com
