UCSB Moves Dirt on $53M Library Renovation

SANTA BARBARA-C.W. Driver, a has begun construction on the renovation and addition to the Davidson Library at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). The project includes seismic upgrades, renovations and fire alarm and life safety system upgrades for the existing 340,000-square-foot library facility along with the addition of a 62,000-square-foot, three-story wing on the north side of the complex. The $53 million project broke ground on August 15, and is slated for tentative completion in January 2016. “Because the library facility will remain open during construction, a plan has been developed to do a majority of work during night-shift hours or student holidays to mitigate disruptions,” said Brett Curry, VP of operations with C.W. Driver. “This renovation project has a targeted focus on seismic upgrades and as such, our primary concern is for the safety and well-being of the students for the duration of the project. We want to maintain a safe environment conducive for students to continue learning.” The project site is located in the middle of UCSB and the building creates a campus centerpiece in an area heavily used by students and faculty. The new addition will be connected to the existing facility via a three-story glass walkway on the northern end of the library. What was previously a 24-hour study room will feature additional study spaces and maximize the natural light. The new library will feature flexible work spaces to accommodate study groups and collaborative projects, creating an environment that facilitates learning and student growth. Additionally, the building will house welcoming, glass-walled study area pop-outs along the west side of the two-story portion. The new addition will be a cast-in-place structure with a combination of architectural concrete, plaster and glass façade. Other features of the building include the creation of a grand glass-walled, three-story Paseo consisting of structural steel frame with a combination of architectural concrete, plaster, glass and ornamental metal façade. This Paseo will create a gateway that connects the library complex to the campus.