New Library to Go Vertical This Summer

It was originally expected that concrete for the foundation of the New Westwood Public Library would be . But as it turns out, Wakefield-based TLT Construction, the contractors of the project, have already begun to do so. 

What's more, steel beams for the first and second floors of the new building (there will be no basement) are expected to be brought to the site sometime this summer, Library Director Tom Viti said Wednesday. 

"By the mid summer or end of summer, the project will go vertical," Viti said. "As of now, they're working to pour the foundation; to put in the water lines and sewer lines and storm drains."

While Viti said the project wasn't necessarily ahead of schedule, progress is certainly moving smoothly at the moment. 

"The M.O. of most construction companies these days is to get it done on time, if not earlier," Viti said. 

Parking during the project has not caused any problems thus far, said Viti, who attributed the reason to that more patrons may like to walk during the warmer weather. 

Foot traffic has decreased by about one-third, which Viti said was expected as the project moved along. Business at the Islington Branch, meanwhile, has increased, he said.