The Brooklyn Public Library Central Branch at 10 Grand Army Plaza embarked on a multi-phased $135MM renovation of the existing facility and exterior grounds. This first phase of the rehabilitation which was the single largest renovation in the branch’s 80-year history, consisted of a renovation of Central Library’s front plaza, MEPS infrastructure upgrades, elevator upgrades, reconstructed entryways for accessibility and pedestrian traffic flow, and an expanded interiors including a new Civic Center, Career Center and Business Center.

After pre-construction planning, Levien & Company took on a specific role of budget tracking and reporting for City, State and Private Funding. Detailed and nuanced cost tracking was required to ensure that funding approval was received from designated sources. 

Particular challenges of the projected included the complicated nature of the filing. The Library has undergone various stand alone upgrades throughout its history, complicating the filing strategy of this more comprehensive renovation.  In addition, extensive phasing was required as the library remained open to the public during the entirety of construction.