Chris-Tel Construction provided Construction Manager-at-Risk services to Lee County Government for the $9.3 million renovation of the South County Regional Library in Estero, Florida.

Originally opened in 1996 as Lee County’s first regional library, the one-story, 32,343-square-foot facility underwent a comprehensive transformation to create a more modern, functional, and accessible community resource.

Project Features
Industry:

Institutional

Sector:

Library/Community

Client:

Lee County Government

Architect:

Grace Design Studios

Delivery Method:

Construction Manager at Risk

Completion Date:

December 2025

Construction Cost:

$9,317,450

Square Footage:

32,000 SF

The renovation included a complete interior renovation with new finishes, ceilings, walls, flooring, accessories, library bookcases, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing upgrades. The improvements were designed to maximize usable space within the existing building footprint while bringing the facility’s building systems and technology up to current operating standards.

Exterior improvements included a new roof, painted exterior walls, a redesigned front entryway, improved traffic flow, and enhanced accessibility. The project also introduced an automated material handling system that uses barcodes to process and sort returned books, DVDs, and other library materials, improving operational efficiency for library staff.

As more than a place to access books and periodicals, the South County Regional Library serves as an important gathering place for the Estero community. The completed renovation provides Lee County residents with an updated, welcoming facility designed to support learning, technology, collaboration, and community connection for years to come.

Key Contacts

Howard Wheeler, II

Howard Wheeler, II

President

Molly Scott

Molly Scott

Vice President of Strategic Development