How will a new Bellevue Library Location be Selected?

Why not expand the present site? Since the present location is landlocked between the existing Bellevue Community Center and Metro Fire Station #37, there is simply no room to expand the present site without relocating one or both of the present facilities. In addition, the present location does not have enough parking now to serve both the Community Center and the Library. Who decides where the new Library is built? Site location will be the determination of the Metro Library Board. There will be an extensive process to locate the best location for Bellevue based on community input, public hearings, site accessibility and visibility, land cost and potential for future expansion. Are there potential sites already identified? Yes, as part of the suggestions made by Mayor Purcell originally, the community has already identified a dozen or more locations that are large enough for a regional library and parking as required by Metro. Some of the potential sites are already owned by Metro (school or parks property).  Some are privately owned. Some potential sites may even be offered as a donation to Metro. Geographically, the entire “Bellevue” area has been researched – from Highway 70S, Highway 100, along Old Hickory Blvd., around I-40 and out as far as McCrory Lane. All of this research will be presented to the Metro Library Board should capital funding be available from Metro in this year’s budget. Any other considerations to be aware of? At least one major corporate donor has identified the Bellevue Community Library as a possibility for assistance should the Library be funded in this year’s Capital Improvement Budget. Just as the Bellevue community stepped forward 20 years ago to assist Metro in our 1st Library, we are confidant that the community will again step forward to assist Metro in these efforts. Good luck & good writing!!!! Councilman Charlie Tygard