by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
Usually when an existing building is in the process of being renovated, it’s a construction zone and therefore off-limits to all except those who are working at the site. That’s not the case with The Library, the project that’s converting the former Haydon Burns Public Library at 122 Ocean St. into Downtown’s next retail development.
“Our intention from the beginning of the project was to keep the building open and available as an ArtWalk venue as much as possible depending on construction,” said Mark Rinaman, one of the developers of the property.
He added the location has become a popular stop for ArtWalkers each month. On Aug. 6, Rinaman said the count was close to 4,000 people through the doors.
By scheduling demolition and other phases of construction so as to conflict with the first Wednesday of each month as little as possible, there has been a benefit not only to the creative community but to the developers as well.
“It’s a great venue even while it’s under construction,” said Michelle Brooks, Downtown Vision, Inc. promotions manager. “It brings a ton of energy to ArtWalk.”
Brooks also said having The Library available gives Downtown Vision Inc. the opportunity to invite groups to participate in ArtWalk that otherwise might find it impossible to secure a venue.
“The only spaces that are close to the same size are the Landing, the Main Library (at Hemming Plaza) and the Museum of Contemporary Art,” said Brooks. “When the Girl Scouts wanted to sell cookies at ArtWalk, they were able to do it at The Library because we never know what the weather is going to do. Any time a not-for-profit contacts us and needs an indoor setting for an event, I send them to The Library. They’re open to just about any suggestion.”
The Library will continue to be available for ArtWalk, said Rinaman. He expects the City’s permitting process to be complete in September when construction will resume to build out spaces for several tenants.
The City Market grocery store that will be operated by the same group that owns Burrito Gallery will be one of the first businesses that will open at The Library and negotiations are underway with several other potential tenants.
“At least one established Downtown restaurant is looking at our space to expand its operations and we’ve talked to a couple of regional restaurant chains that are interested,” said Rinaman. “We’d also really like to have a pharmacy to complement City Market and be able to provide that type of service Downtown and we have negotiated agreements with parking providers so now we can offer blocks of parking commensurate with our leases.
“The Library is a great space with unlimited potential. Making it available for events like ArtWalk is a way for us to exploit the waiting time and maintain the vibrancy of the building even though it is technically still a work in progress. It’s our way to contribute to the Downtown economy while the building is in the middle of the process of being renovated.”
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