Downtown library elevator getting a lift from federal grant money

Work is set to go ahead at the Red Deer Public Library’s downtown branch to replace its aging elevator.
 
Red Deer – Mountain View MP Earl Dreeshen was on hand at the library on Wednesday to announce a $50,000 grant on behalf of the federal government to go towards the $150,000 project.
 
The rest of the cost is being covered by The City of Red Deer.
 
“Having accessiblity at libraries is extremely critical and it’s great that the government has been able to make sure these funds are available,” Dreeshen said.
 
“I’m certain people in Red Deer are very much going to appreciate this new aspect of our library.”
 
Library CEO Shelley Ross said the elevator will be shut down for about two weeks this November in order to complete the work. It will help not only in ensuring people with mobility issues can move floor to floor, but also with staff moving materials up and down.
 
While there are no safety concerns with the current elevator, other than it being old, the new elevator will bring everything up to code.
 
During Capital Budget debate last November, Red Deer city council also approved $40,000 to upgrade the library’s wireless infrastructure.