Sudbury chooses consultant for architectural and engineering services for new library/art gallery

The City of Greater Sudbury has selected WZMH Architects as the consultant for the design of Junction East, the City’s new Library/Art Gallery (LAG).

A Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued in November 2019, and the contract was awarded to WZMH after a thorough evaluation of 13 submissions.

“We are pleased the procurement process is complete, and we look forward to working with WZMH to move this project forward,” said Mayor Brian Bigger.

“This brings us one step closer to creating a cultural hub in the downtown, a space where people can connect, learn and be creative. This firm has a history of designing buildings that become civic landmarks, and I’m confident our Library/Art Gallery will be no different.”

WZMH has 60 years of experience in the design and delivery of large, iconic, complex projects, including landmark public libraries, art museums, skyscrapers, bridges and hotels. The firm designed the world-renowned CN Tower and the Canadian Space Agency, among many others. WZMH is leading a project team that includes local professionals in the industry.

“We are very excited to be part of this project,” said Nicola Casciato, a principal at WZMH Architects.

“We have assembled a top-notch team of award-winning architects and specialty planners to fully realize this project, which will revitalize downtown Sudbury. Our team will create an anchor institution for Greater Sudbury, offering a unique experience for residents and attracting visitors from around the world.”

Expected to open in 2024, Junction East will be a 61,800 square foot building and will include the Greater Sudbury Public Library Main Branch and the Art Gallery of Sudbury, located on the east side of Shaughnessy Street in the downtown. The city and WZMH will also integrate the Sudbury Theatre Centre and Sudbury Multicultural and Folk Arts Association into the project.

“We are pleased to see this project move ahead,” said Michael Bellmore, chair, Greater Sudbury Public Library Board. “This space, created by citizens for citizens, will better serve the community and will be transformative for the downtown.”

“The Library/Art Gallery will foster lifelong learning and creativity,” said Janik Guy, Co-chair, Art Gallery of Sudbury Board of Directors. “It will allow people to enjoy and appreciate the arts, technology and innovation in one bigger, better and inclusive space. This will truly enrich the lives of residents.”

Public consultation sessions will be held in the fall of 2020 to collect input into the development of a design for the building. The type of engagements will depend on physical distancing directives. Efforts will be made to ensure all residents may participate.

A more formal public introduction of WZMH will take place at a media event later this fall.

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