The Jones Library demolition/expansion project has become too expensive. The desperate plans to keep it alive for another try at bidding in the fall will cause significant harm to the historic building, elimination of virtually all of the promised sustainability features, and still carry an exorbitant cost.
There is a strong and growing sentiment in town that it is time to stop pursuing this project and pivot to an affordable repair and repurposing of space in the existing building. Many people in town are gravely concerned about the proposed "value engineering" that will produce half the originally promised project at almost twice the cost.
Scores of people have voiced their individual opinions in letters to the Town Council and public comments at meetings. Yet, our Town leaders have failed to heed these calls. This petition will demonstrate to the Town Manager and Town Council the collective will of the residents of Amherst for fiscal responsibility, historical integrity, genuine sustainability, and knowing when it is time to change course.
The Jones Library is a beloved building, and necessary repairs should be completed without further delay. The demolition/expansion project is too big, too expensive, too damaging, and is consuming time, energy, and money that would be better spent on more pressing needs, like education and public safety.
To SIGN THE PETITION, click the NEXT button below.
Links to more information:
The demolition/expansion project will cost the town far more than $15.8 million
The Jones’ own Treasurer said the project is no longer fiscally viable
Project supporters greatly exaggerate the costs of repairs and renovation
Demolition of important historic features has resulted in the loss of tax credits and endangers other grants
“Value engineering” will eliminate sustainability measures and could lead to loss of some funding
We don’t need the demolition/expansion project to support our programming needs
Chasing the overpriced expansion project takes resources away from other needs
See here for coverage of the issues by the Amherst Indy
