Bufftree Bldg. starts construction on new 20,880 s/f Mashpee library

In early 2010, a new public library in Mashpee will open its doors and welcome patrons to a state of-the art building that is both user- and environmentally-friendly. When completed the library will incorporate energy efficiencies that qualify for LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, a Washington, D.C.-based, nonprofit coalition of building industry leaders. "Construction has gotten off to a great start," said Michael Fazio, project manager for the architectural firm of J. Stewart Roberts Associates, Inc. of Somerville, who added that the foundations are currently being installed. "We've been very happy with Bufftree's performance and are very excited about this project because it will be one of the first LEED-certified libraries in Massachusetts and the first on Cape Cod." Examples of items considered in the LEED certification process include: proximity to mass transportation; solar-powered lighting systems and shielded outside lights; a dedicated recycling closet; reuse and recycling of components of the demolished building; and use of certified lumber. The projected cost for the new library is $6.4 million; the total footage is 20,880 s/f. The site also includes a parking lot, an outdoor events yard and an adjacent building that will house a new Mashpee post office. Among the outstanding features of the library are an events room for community meetings; space for the library's Native American collection; and an expanded area for children's services. South coast-based Bufftree Building Company is currently completing the new fire and rescue station for the Town of Wellfleet. Bufftree's portfolio also includes a host of construction projects on Cape Cod.