Commissioners accept low bids for Phase 2 of Newton County Library expansion

County staff and the architect presented bids for Phase 2 of the Newton County Library project and asked the board to accept the low bidders so construction can proceed.

Mr. Griffith described the project as an addition that will become a community learning center and noted it will support Penn State Extension and 4‑H programming. He presented three low bids: general construction (low bid) $1,670,590; mechanical construction (Allied) $365,000 including base bid and an alternate for plumbing and fire suppression; and electrical construction $220,335. Staff reported they had received bid bonds and insurance documents for all but one contractor and scheduled a construction meeting at 1 p.m. that afternoon.

Commissioners asked about timing and funding availability; staff said the funding source must be used in 2026 and the project must be ready to move quickly. The board moved to accept the bids; the motions were carried by voice vote.