Request for Qualifications for Santa Cruz Downtown Library - Tenant Improvements Construction

The Santa Cruz Downtown Library Improvements project consists of library tenant improvements within the core and shell structure of the Downtown Library Affordable Housing Project (DLAHP) at 119 Lincoln Street and includes a two-story library with a mezzanine level totaling approximately 37,000 square feet and an approximately 3,500 square foot rooftop deck. The project is located on Cedar Street between Lincoln and Cathcart Streets.

In 2016, voters approved Measure S, which provides bond funding to modernize, repair, and upgrade library branches located throughout the county-wide system. Based on a thorough needs assessment process, funds were allocated to each participating jurisdiction who were given responsibility for managing the improvements or new construction, in consultation with professional library staff. Because of the condition and complexity of the Downtown Branch, the City established the Downtown Library Advisory Committee (DLAC) to explore programmatic needs and construction costs of several options for the Downtown Library. On September 11th, 2018, the Council approved the project concept recommended by DLAC: a mixed-use project incorporating the library, commercial space, parking, and housing. The first phase on the project, which includes construction of the core and shell for the Downtown Library commenced in August 2025.

Project background and information is available on the City’s DLAHP project website: http://www.santnacruzca.gov/downtownlibraryproject