Prosser Public Library

“There is no hierarchy in the library. There ought to be no politics in the library. Come in. Hush. Enjoy your research. Be at work or pleasure. Because in here it does not matter what or who you come from, what you look like, or how heavy your pocket is. In the library all people and all dreams are valid.”

–Anika Noni Rose, Actress / Singer / Author born and raised in Bloomfield

In Bloomfield, the Prosser Public Library has been reimagined as a 28,000 SF, light-filled destination that restores the library’s role at the center of town life. Partnering closely with the Town and design team, Downes Construction delivered a building that honors its context while creating a “front porch” for the community — welcoming, connected, and built for all. 

“This is a space that will serve as a cornerstone of learning, connections and more.” 

– Bloomfield Mayor Danielle Wong 

Complex Site, Precise Solutions

Built at a busy intersection and within a constrained site crossed by rights-of-way and floodplain considerations, the project demanded meticulous planning and sequencing. Subsurface conditions required more than 430 aggregate piers—drilled 10–20 feet—to stabilize soils and support the new structure. Tight tolerances across steel, concrete, and finished wood elements—particularly the exposed glue-laminated timbers—drove a field strategy centered on coordination, early trade engagement, and careful protection as the envelope took shape.

The Bridge: Engineering a First

A defining feature is the pedestrian bridge over Wash Brook—designed as both connective infrastructure and civic gesture. The span integrates a snow-melt system and public access capability that require exacting coordination of concrete and steel to meet code while avoiding reclassification as a ramp. The team planned logistics around narrow approaches and live traffic, executed precision concrete/steel interfaces, and rigorously tested systems to ensure performance in all seasons. The result is a universally accessible, safe and effective link inviting the community across the brook and into the library.

Safety, Clarity, and Open-Book Management

On a tight, high-visibility site, safety came first. Downes implemented enhanced traffic controls (including dedicated spotters for vehicles entering the roadway) and Job Hazard Analyses for high-risk activities such as crane picks. The team paired that culture of safety with open-book client communication, clearly explaining scope changes and cost implications to build trust and support decision-making throughout.

Built for Longevity—and LEED Certified

Sustainability guided choices from demolition through closeout. The project has achieved LEED Silver (and is being submitted for Gold), supported by low-VOC materials, LED lighting, and high-efficiency systems. Downes diverted approximately 95% of demolition debris and 93% of construction waste from landfills through aggressive sorting and tracking. The building’s durable materials and energy-smart design reduce long-term operational costs while elevating occupant comfort.

Community Voices, Shared Pride

At the ribbon cutting, town leaders and residents underscored what the new library means to Bloomfield. The Mayor celebrated the power of collaboration and local investment. Library Director Elizabeth Lane reminded the crowd, “This is your library”—a place to gather, learn, and belong. The Building Committee Chair Mark Weisman called the project “a massive collaborative effort,” noting every pane and beam was placed by a skilled hand. 

Collaboration at the Core

From union jurisdiction alignment on specialty timber installation to design-assist problem solving on the bridge, success grew from close collaboration. “On a project with this many moving parts, relationships matter,” said Downes Project Manager Anthony Mossa. “We delivered the design vision by working shoulder-to-shoulder with the Town, the architect, and our trade partners—every day.”

Location: Bloomfield, CT
Owner: Town of Bloomfield
Architect: TSKP Studio
Size: 28,000 SF
Certification: LEED Silver
Role: Construction Manager at Risk