Library renovation team to revise project after bid exceeds engineer’s estimate
The recent call for bids on a project to renovate and expand the Walla Walla Public Library resulted in one bid, which exceeded the projected construction budget by more than $1 million. At the April 8, 2026, Walla Walla City Council regular meeting, staff will recommend that the Council reject the bid.
In the meantime, the project team is reviewing the bid specifications and design to revise the scope of work to reduce costs. This approach reflects the City of Walla Walla’s commitment to strong fiscal stewardship.
“The library renovation remains a top priority for the City,” said City Manager Elizabeth Chamberlain. “The revised scope of work will still maintain the goal of delivering a renovated library that will serve the current and future needs of the community such as a meeting/gathering space for programming and an active children’s space.”
Receiving a single bid and one that exceeds the architect/engineer’s estimate is not uncommon. For example, the City Council rejected the original Heritage Square construction bid and the city re-bid the project after a revised scope and design to bring the project back within budget.
The library will not close on April 4 as previously planned, and will now be open during spring break with activities all week to engage families.
Additional updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
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