Officials review schematic plans for proposed Tunica library; board asks about parking, greenspace

Contractors presented schematic designs for a proposed Tunica public library and walked the Board of Supervisors through floor plans, site layouts and two elevation styles during the board’s April 20 meeting.

Robbie Meredith, the project manager, said the current floor plan provides meeting rooms, a large library area of “right at, I believe, 5,600 or so square feet,” separate youth services and staff visibility through interior windows, and public restrooms near the meeting-room entry. Meredith said the design includes a book drop and storage for chairs and equipment and that the team had met with First Regional staff to size technology and meeting spaces.

A project presenter (unnamed contractor) showed a site plan based on aerial imagery because a survey is not yet complete and said the layout currently indicates 21 parking spaces with a drive-through book drop. The presenter said adding parking could be included as a bid alternate so the county could decide after receiving pricing.

Board members focused questions on site placement and greenspace. A supervisor said the sliver of green space to the south of the building “will never get utilized,” and asked whether moving the building back could enlarge usable program green in front. The contractor responded that landscaping could make the space functional and that the building could be set back from the street for a more comfortable streetscape, but that alternate placements and survey-based adjustments would be scoped in future design phases.

Library staff noted the plan preserves sight lines to staff areas and includes a youth services office with a window to the circulation area. The presenters said engineering and mechanical design will be completed in the next phase and that they will refine parking, landscaping and material options once they receive a survey and further input.

No formal board action was taken on the schematic; presenters left copies of the boards and said they would return with more detailed design development and cost options.