The Town of Bracebridge has awarded the contract to move forward with renovations to the interior of the historic former Carnegie Library building.
During the Sept. 1 general committee meeting, council awarded the project to W.S. Morgan Construction Limited, the lowest of four bidders, at a cost of $1.6 million.
The town-owned building, built in 1906, was home to the town’s library for decades, contributing to the area’s historic character and making it a beloved part of the Bracebridge community.
In 2024, the library relocated to the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre, leaving the former library building vacant.
Since then, Town staff have been reviewing potential uses for the building, including a draft floor plan and related costs for a proposed rehabilitation and retrofit.
In September last year, the town approved more than $2.6 million for the historic building, with $1,845,000 allocated in 2026 and $762,000 in 2027 through the long-term capital plan.
The funding includes a project contingency of up to $336,210, an estimated $180,000 to develop a comprehensive estimate for the required IT and network infrastructure, and a $65,000 provisional allowance for exterior work, including repairs to the main entrance stonework and retaining walls.
Staff proposed using the building to accommodate the Town of Bracebridge’s Planning and Development Department and establish a Bracebridge Business Development Centre while preserving its heritage features and value.
The proposal also includes having the Muskoka Small Business Centre, the Bracebridge Business Improvement Area, the Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce, and the Visitor Information Centre in the building.
The project still requires final approval from council at its next meeting. If approved, construction is expected to begin before the end of the year and take approximately 20 weeks to complete. The work is expected to take place largely outside the busy summer season to minimize potential impacts on businesses and visitors, with occupancy anticipated in 2027.
