Boston Public Library, Johnson Building
CHA provided cost estimating services for the two phase renovation of this landmark in downtown Boston. The $78 million project consisted of 156,000 SF in renovations in two phases to the 1972 Phillip Johnson Addition to the Central Branch of the Boston Public Library. Phase 1 was completed in early 2015 and provided improved amenities for the reference, general collection, children, and teen areas.
Phase 2 was completed in the summer of 2016 and focused on the removal of the granite plinths that previously blocked the ground-floor windows. The three bays facing Boylston Street open to create the new two-story Boylston Hall, which includes additional entry points and retail space in the northwest corner. The Boston Public Library serves more than four million visitors per year and is a treasured venue in the City of Boston.
Project summary
Significant $78 million renovation project.
Two-phase renovation of landmark building.
The library serves four million visitors per year.
Talk to an expert
Sean Sweeney, CSL, LEED AP O+M
Senior Vice President,
Project Management and Construction Management Business Line Director
Sean has three decades of leadership and practical experience in the construction, real estate, and facility management industry. He has constructed public, commercial, retail, and residential projects in more than 37 U.S. states and overseas. His expertise encompasses the employment of complex project delivery systems using emerging technologies, cutting edge construction techniques, and fast-track program development and execution.