San Rafael City Council approves progressive design-build contract for new library and community center at Albert Park

At its November 2, 2026 meeting, the San Rafael City Council voted 5-0 to approve a Progressive Design-Build contract with XL Construction Corporation for the new Library and Community Center at Albert Park project. The Council also approved a Project Labor Agreement to support the project.

The new facility is funded by a citizen's initiative passed by San Rafael voters in November 2024. It will be one of the largest capital projects the City has undertaken in recent years, creating a vibrant hub for civic, cultural, and social enrichment.

"We are responding to what our community has said that they wanted," said Mayor Kate Colin, "having a building that reflects our community vision and values and that will be here for the next generation is amazing."

This is the first time the City has used the Progressive Design-Build delivery method for a major capital project. The contract approved by City Council is for Phase 1 services, which includes conceptual and schematic design, community engagement, initial entitlements and permitting, and design development. The results of this work will be used to develop a Guaranteed Maximum Price for Phase 2, which includes final design and construction. This collaborative approach allows the City and the design-build team to identify and address risks before the price is locked in.

XL Construction, working with design partner SOM, was selected through a competitive public process. The City received proposals from eight qualified teams and a cross-departmental evaluation committee shortlisted three finalists for interviews. The team of XL Construction and SOM Architects were recommended based on the depth of experience of the firms and the proposed team members, their approach to design management and community engagement, and their demonstrated ability to deliver design excellence on time and within budget.

"I am absolutely confident in this team that we have assembled and that the collaboration that we are putting in place will bring forward an exceptional facility for our community," said Councilmember Maribeth Bushey.

Phase 1 is expected to be completed in Spring/Summer 2028. At that point, staff will return to the City Council with a Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment for Phase 2, aligned with authorization of the bond financing for construction.

In a related action, the Council also authorized the City Manager to execute a Project Labor Agreement for construction of the project. State law requires local agencies using Progressive Design-Build to ensure a skilled and trained workforce, which a Project Labor Agreement satisfies. The agreement was negotiated with and received vocal support from the North Bay Building & Construction Trades Council and the North Coast States Regional Council of Carpenters.

For more information about the Library and Community Center at Albert Park project, visit the project website.