The J.C. Wheeler Library soon will get its long-awaited facelift on the east side of the building in downtown Martin.
The Martin Township Board Wednesday evening voted to accept a bid of $28,740 from Tim Visser Construction for the remodeling of the entrance to the library after it was struck and damaged by a vehicle earlier this year. Visser’s bid was slightly higher than its competitor, but local officials the company put a lot of quality effort into its preparations.
“I appreciate the work Visser’s done,” said Township Supervisor Glenn Leep, noting the company provided an artist’s rendering of what the building will look like and had Robin Rogers do a lot of planning for interior design.
Trustee Jim Brenner said, “It appears that Visser preliminary work on the project and the other company submitted its bid based on its drawings.”
The renovated building will have no brick appearance. It instead will have new and slightly smaller windows and gray vinyl.
Trustee Jack Sipple, after voting affirmatively for the project, said, “This is something that should have happened a long time ago.”
Work is expected to begin soon, and Library Director Alice Kelsey was granted permission to have the Friends of the Library book sale Nov. 6 and 7 at the township hall, if necessary, while the library is undergoing changes.
PHOTO: An artist’s rendering of the renovated entrance of the J.C. Wheeler Library on 10th Street just south of the Martin Village four corners.