Memorandum
REPORT TO:
City Commission
FROM:
Jon Henderson, Assistant City Manager
David Arnado, Facilities Superintendent
Shane Miller, Facilities Project Coordinator
SUBJECT:
Authorize the City Manager to Sign a Construction Agreement with Martel Construction Inc. for Bozeman Public Library Children's Room Renovation Construction Services
MEETING DATE:
September 22, 2026
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:
Agreement - Vendor/Contract
RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize the City Manager to Sign a Construction Agreement with Martel Construction Inc. for Bozeman Public Library Children's Room Renovation Construction Services
STRATEGIC PLAN:
BACKGROUND:
The Bozeman Public Library Children’s Room is currently planned for renovation, following a larger renovation that occurred throughout the balance of the facility in 2023.
In June 2024 through 2025, the Children's Room welcomed 135,435 visitors. 42% of the total visitors to the library visited the Children's Room. More than 50% of the library's total circulation (book, film, audiobook checkouts) is from the juvenile collection. An entire generation of Bozeman kids grew up in this space, and it is deeply beloved. All this use shows - things are breaking, showing their age, and we have outgrown the ways we currently use the space.
Goals of the project include:
- Increase sightlines and safety
- Increase accessibility, including changing tables to support diapering tall children and spaces to appeal to neurodivergent patrons
- Create intentional dramatic play and makerspace areas for children of all ages
- Expand storage and staff workspaces and bring tools like a washer/dryer, dishwasher, and utility sink to the backstage areas
The City of Bozeman is partnering with the Bozeman Public Library Friends and Foundation and the Bozeman Public Library Board of Trustees to complete the project through a Memorandum of Understanding establishing the appropriate roles and responsibilities for all parties approved on March 3, 2026.
This Agreement will focus on the construction of the project. Martel was selected following the City's procurement policy, with an Construction Agreement approved by the City's Legal Department. The Library Board of Trustees has approved the initial efforts to move forward with the renovation based on the previously approved design.
Additional information about the project can be found on the City's Engage Bozeman website.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:
None.
ALTERNATIVES:
As directed by the City Commission.
FISCAL EFFECTS:
Costs associated with this Agreement ($582,000) will be paid with contributions from the Bozeman Public Library Friends & Foundation.