FELLSMERE – The City of Fellsmere has announced the start of the Marian Fell Library Restoration Project. This project to restore one of the City’s most valuable historic assets is made possible by a $50,000 matching grant through the Florida Department of State Division of Historic Resources.
The City is providing $25,000 towards the restoration matched by $25,000 through the small category grants program.
The project is being overseen by Paul C. Palmer, AIA LEED AP with Renker Eich Parks Architects. Renker et al is the same firm that conducted the assessment of the Marian Fell Library when it was conveyed to the City from the Indian River County Historical Society.
This firm also oversaw the restoration of the “Old School” which was an adaptive reuse that now houses the City Hall and the Fellsmere Boys & Girls Club.
The restoration project will include the following elements: handicap parking, updated restroom, updated kitchen, fascia repair and painting of the exterior, new A/C system, refinished flooring, shelving restoration, and other elements necessary to complete the restoration process in compliance with historic preservation guidelines.
The restoration project shall be completed by June 30.
The Marian Fell Library is an integral part of the City. Currently the facility is home to job training services provided by the Indian River State College and tutoring services for elementary school children by volunteer Connie Ward.
The site is also part of the annual Walking Tour conducted by Rich Votapka during Fellsmere Day.
Questions about the project may be directed to Jason Nunemaker, City Manager, at (772) 646-6303 or citymanager@cityoffellsmere.org.
