Arbutus Library, Community and Senior Center
Baltimore County, Maryland
Project Partners
- Owner: Baltimore County Department of Public Works, Bureau of Engineering and Construction
- Architect: Sanders Designs, P.A.
- Civil Engineer: Site Resources, Inc.
- Structural Engineer: Century Engineering
- LEED Coordinator: Lorax Partnerships, LLC
The Arbutus Library, Community and Senior Center project transformed a 13.8-acre site in Baltimore County into a shared civic campus that brings together approximately 33,000 square feet of library and senior center space with an additional 9,000 square feet for recreation. Designed by Sanders Designs, P.A., the complex was envisioned as a vibrant community destination that connects people of all ages through learning, wellness and recreation. Sustainability was a key goal, with the library and senior center achieving LEED Silver certification and the recreation building earning LEED Gold. Completed in 2010, the $11 million project represents one of Baltimore County’s first LEED-certified community facilities.
D.W. Kozera, Inc. (DWK) provided geotechnical engineering services in support of the design team. DWK conducted subsurface explorations, laboratory testing and engineering analyses to evaluate soil and groundwater conditions across the site. The results guided the design of shallow foundations, slab-on-grade construction, retaining walls, site grading and pavement systems for the new complex. DWK’s testing also contributed to the design of the stormwater management facilities by evaluating infiltration capacity and soil suitability for water quality and drainage features. The firm’s recommendations established parameters for bearing capacity, settlement control, compaction and pavement support that aligned with the project’s performance and sustainability goals.
DWK worked closely with Sanders Designs, Site Resources, Inc. and Century Engineering throughout design development to integrate geotechnical findings into the architectural, civil and structural plans. The firm’s early coordination helped the team anticipate and address subsurface challenges, refine stormwater and pavement designs and reduce construction risks. DWK’s work provided a sound foundation for the project’s success and contributed to a community campus that continues to serve as a model of sustainable and resilient design for Baltimore County.