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Frequently Asked Questions- Sammamish Library
Will the new library have adequate parking for patrons?
We are working with the architects to provide as much parking at the new library as possible to meet the day-to-day needs of library patrons. The preliminary site designs include 22 parking stalls above ground and 45 stalls below ground. Parking is a complicated matter, due to the escalating costs of construction materials and labor. The Sammamish site also has a few limitations that impact the amount of parking we are able to provide. According to the city’s zoning requirements, we are only able to pave 30 percent of the site. The city also stipulates that we must provide structured parking under the building in order to reduce the amount of paving, lessen storm water impacts and be more in keeping with the residential zoning of the neighborhood. We realize parking may be more challenging during larger library programs and are working to establish a relationship with a nearby church, in the hope of providing overflow parking.
What will the building design look like?
The architects have developed some preliminary designs for the new Sammamish Library that take advantage of natural lighting and offer views of Seattle and the Olympic Mountains. The contractors will be using building materials that complement the adjacent plaza, city hall and park. Preliminary designs for the new library also include a partial green roof. As the site is located near a residential area, the vegetation on the green roof will absorb water, reducing storm water runoff. The rooftop garden also will add an extra layer of insulation, saving energy as it keeps the building cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Has traffic flow at the site been determined?
Traffic planning for the project is a joint effort between the developers of the new library and the adjacent city hall. A traffic signal already exists at the primary entrance to the site, at 228th Street SE and Eighth Street SE. Library patrons also may access the site via a right-turn-only entrance if traveling south on 228th Street SE, which will lead them directly to the library parking area. A bus stop also is conveniently located nearby.
