The Town of Bracebridge has hired Mitchell Jensen Architects to draw up detailed designs for the renovation of the Carnegie Library.
Staff presented a report outlining the $178,500 contract during a meeting in early December. This funding remains subject to the final adoption of the 2026 budget.
“This next step, which is the subject of the report, allows us to get the detailed design work done,” said Cheryl Kelley, Director of Planning and Development. “Allows us to get to tender so that we can actually provide you the real estimate of the 2026 dollars based on that work.”
Since then, council has been investigating ways to reuse this historic landmark to support municipal needs and local economic development.
These funds will support the rehabilitation and retrofit of the building to accommodate the Town’s planning and development department and establish a new business development centre.
Additionally, this hub will house the Muskoka Small Business Centre, the Bracebridge BIA, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Visitor Information Centre.
“This is an incremental step on the process, no different than any other capital project that we’ve done in the municipality,” said Mayor Rick Maloney. “Reference, the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre, where we had budget estimates or costing estimates. We fine-tuned that as decision points came to council and ended up with a product that was one that works for the community and was within the budget limitations of the municipality.”
Council agreed to move forward with the motion and directed staff to return with more detailed information regarding the scope and final pricing once the tender process is complete.
