Article 16 - 2024 Spring Town Meeting

Planning and Design Appropriation for State Library Construction Program

A vote to approve Article 16 of the Spring Annual Town Meeting Warrant will allow the Library to submit a grant application for the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program. The article appropriates $150,000 for planning & design work and will be matched by up to $100,000 from the State. The article is co-sponsored by the Board of Library Trustees and the Board of Selectmen.

Funding for the Planning and Design Phase is for activities related to the planning and designing of new, renovated, or expanded public library facilities in advance of a whole building project. This includes site feasibility, engineering, and schematic design work. At least two sites are required when seeking construction funding, and the Town is presenting the Library's existing site and the former McCloskey school site as two options for a future project. 

A vote to approve Article 16 DOES NOT appropriate funds for a library renovation/expansion or new construction project. This article opens the door to future library construction funding if the Town's grant application is approved by the State. Based on the MPLCP timeline, a town meeting vote for construction funding is anticipated for Spring 2026.

The proposed $150,000 appropriation will only be utilized if the Town's grant application is approved by the MBLC.

MPLCP Standard Grant Timeline

Phase Available Funding
Planning and Design
(2024-2025)
  • Town appropriates $150,000 in anticipation of a grant award
  • P&D grant covers 50% of costs, up to $100,000
  • Anticipated maximum cost is $250,000
Construction
(2026-2029)
  • Construction grant covers 40-50% of eligible construction costs
  • Remaining funding would come from the Town and fundraising efforts
  • Town Meeting vote anticipated for Spring 2026

 

The Town's grant application for the MPLCP must be submitted by May 31. In Fall 2024, the MBLC will notify Uxbridge if its grant application has been approved. Click here for more information about the MPLCP timeline.

Click here for an overview of the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program and future library construction.

Click here for answers to Frequently Asked Questions related to Article 16 and the MPLCP.

Helpful Links

Uxbridge and MPLCP Infographic

2023 Uxbridge Free Public Library Building Program

FY25-FY26 Bridge Plan

Letter of Intent

Existing Library Site Maps

MPLCP Standard Grant Round Program Notice

State Regulations 605 CMR 6

Prior MPLCP Projects

Facility Conditions Assessment (forthcoming)