PLAINSBORO: New library opening is delayed

ByKristine Snodgrass, Staff Writer
   PLAINSBORO — The Plainsboro Public Library opening has been pushed back another two weeks in June, as a result of construction delays.
   The $12 million library, which held its groundbreaking in Dec. 2007, was originally scheduled to open in April. Issues with soil problems pushed the opening to June 3, and it has now been delayed another 14 days because of problems with piping, said Cary Spiegel, the township’s construction manager for the job.
   Mr. Spiegel, speaking at Wednesday night’s Township Committee meeting, said that, barring any further unforeseen problems, the library would be open by the end of June. The exterior brick and cast stone is scheduled for arrival next month, and windows arrive in April, he said.
   Meanwhile, he said he is “working very hard” to keep the costs below the original estimate of $12.5 million. The contractor, H&S Mechanical, of Elizabeth, was awarded the job on a bid of $11.9 million.
   There is currently a $100,000 increase in negotiation, and more is expected, Mr. Spiegel said.
   ”There are things that have come up that we don’t have solid numbers on yet,” he said.
   Also at the meeting, the committee introduced salary ordinances for the Policeman’s Benevolent Association and the Communication Workers of America.
   Police salaries are proposed to increase of 4 percent each year for three years, said Township Administrator Robert Sheehan. CWA salaries are proposed to increase at the same rate for the next two years.
   Both groups made concessions on their health care to save the township money, he said. CWA workers will no longer have the option of a more expensive health-care program, he said.
   Also at the meeting, Police Chief Richard Furda said Sgt. Joseph Duffy and his unit would receive awards for their work in the rescue attempt of a township resident who drowned after falling through the ice while trying to save her dog from Plainsboro Pond in January.
   A civilian award will also be given to Austin Hearn, 31, of Fox Run Drive, who attempted to save the woman and called police, Chief Furda said.
   The committee also discussed the result of the township fire district elections. Its budget was approved, and write-in Joe Pawlak defeated incumbent Ted Wagner for commissioner.