BIRCH BAY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A long-anticipated community gathering space in Birch Bay now has an updated timeline for opening.

The Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) said that their Board of Trustees voted earlier this month to approve a construction contract for the Vogt Library Express building.

Summit Construction Group is expected to begin renovation work on the former Vogt family home next month, which will include expanded parking and ADA accessibility upgrades. The first floor of the building will serve as the library express, complete with meeting spaces, computer access and room for story times and other library events.

My Bellingham Now previously reported that the property was purchased by WCLS in 2017 and has been going through the permitting process for renovation and expansion.

A state grant and private donations are funding the 11th location within the Whatcom County Library System.

WCLS anticipated the Vogt Library Express will be open for the public by January.